Mellody Hobson

Mellody Hobson is an American businesswoman who is the president and co-CEO of Ariel Investments, a Chicago-based investment firm. She is also the former chairwoman of DreamWorks Animation, having stepped down after the company was acquired by NBCUniversal in 2016. In addition to her work in finance, Hobson is a regular contributor to financial news programs and has served on the boards of several major corporations.

Early life and education

Hobson was born in Chicago, Illinois, and attended St. Ignatius College Prep for high school. She then went on to attend Princeton University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Romance Languages and Literatures.

Career

Hobson began her career at Ariel Investments as an intern in 1991. She rose through the ranks of the company, eventually becoming president in 2000. In this role, she is responsible for managing over $13 billion in assets and leading a team of investment professionals.

In 2006, Hobson was appointed as a director of Starbucks Corporation, and in 2020, she became the non-executive chair of the board, making her one of the highest-ranking African American women in finance.

Hobson has also served on the boards of Estée Lauder Companies, JPMorgan Chase, and DreamWorks Animation. In 2017, she was named as the Financial Woman of the Year by the Financial Women's Association.

Personal life

Hobson is married to filmmaker George Lucas. They have one daughter together.

Recognition

Hobson has received numerous awards and honors for her work in finance and her advocacy for financial literacy and diversity. In 2015, she was named to Time Magazine's list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

See also

• Ariel Investments
• DreamWorks Animation
• Starbucks Corporation