Jared Smith may not be a household name like Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos, but he has carved out a remarkable fortune for himself. As the co-founder of Qualtrics, a cloud computing powerhouse, and interim CEO of Immersion Corp., Smith has become a billionaire whose impact extends far beyond the tech industry.
The Qualtrics Saga: From Start-up to Billion-Dollar Exit
Smith’s journey to wealth began with Qualtrics, a company he launched in 2002. Qualtrics revolutionized business feedback and customer experience management, and its rapid growth made it a prime target for acquisition. In a blockbuster deal, SAP snapped up Qualtrics for a staggering $8 billion in 2018, marking a pivotal moment in Smith’s financial trajectory.
Business Acumen Beyond Qualtrics
Smith’s business acumen extends beyond Qualtrics. He currently serves as the Interim CEO and Vice President of Worldwide Sales at Immersion Corp., a leader in haptic technology (think: the vibrations you feel on your smartphone). His involvement in this innovative company further diversifies his portfolio.
Philanthropy: Giving Back to the Community
Smith’s success has not come without a strong commitment to giving back. He supports various educational and healthcare initiatives, including donations to the University of Utah and Intermountain Healthcare. His philanthropic efforts have earned him recognition as a generous benefactor in the Utah community.
Key Facts and Personal Life
- Full Name: Jared Scott Smith
- Age: 50 (as of 2023)
- Alma Mater: Harvard Business School (MBA)
- Family: Married to Jerilyn Smith with three children
- Residence: Provo, Utah
Conclusion
Jared Smith’s life is a testament to the power of innovation, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. As a successful tech mogul, he has created a vast fortune while also making a positive impact on society. His story inspires us to pursue our passions, embrace risk, and strive to leave a lasting legacy that extends beyond monetary success.