Robert Herjavec: From Humble Beginnings To Shark Tank Fame

What’s the Deal with Robert Herjavec’s Net Worth?

Let me tell you about Robert Herjavec, a guy who turned his life around from a kid with $20 in his pocket to a billionaire businessman. With a net worth of $600 million, Herjavec isn’t just another face on TV—he’s a powerhouse in the world of entrepreneurship. You’ve probably seen him on Shark Tank, where he sits alongside other sharp-minded investors, helping hopeful entrepreneurs pitch their ideas. But this isn’t just a TV gig for Robert. He’s also one of Canada’s most respected tech entrepreneurs, having built a massive empire in cybersecurity. His journey is nothing short of inspiring, especially considering he’s an immigrant who came to Canada with nothing but dreams and determination.

Early Life: From Croatia to Canada

Robert Herjavec’s story begins in Varaždin, Croatia, where he was born in 1963. Life wasn’t easy for his family in Yugoslavia, especially for his father, who was frequently jailed for speaking out against communism. When Robert was just eight years old, his family made the bold decision to move to Canada in search of a better life. They arrived with only $20 and a suitcase, settling in Toronto. Life was tough, but Robert’s dad worked hard in a factory to keep the family afloat while Robert adjusted to a new country, a new language, and a new culture.

Growing up, Robert faced plenty of challenges. He barely spoke English when he arrived, and his classmates often teased him. The family lived in a cramped basement for over a year, and money was tight. Despite these struggles, Robert graduated from the University of Toronto in 1984 with a degree in English literature and political science. While his education didn’t point directly to a career in business, it taught him resilience and critical thinking. To help his family, Robert worked odd jobs—waiting tables, delivering newspapers, and more—all while dreaming of something bigger.

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Climbing the Ladder in Tech

After graduation, Robert found work as a third assistant director in the film industry, but the inconsistent schedule didn’t cut it. To keep the cash flowing, he took on various jobs, including one selling computer equipment for a company called Logiquest. Here’s where things started to shift. Even though Robert wasn’t qualified, he convinced the company to take him on as an unpaid intern for six months. His hustle paid off, and before long, he was climbing the corporate ladder, eventually becoming the general manager of Logiquest. This experience gave him the skills and confidence he needed to strike out on his own.

Building an Empire: BRAK Systems and Beyond

In 1990, Robert left Logiquest to start his own company, BRAK Systems. This venture wasn’t just any startup—it was a cybersecurity firm that Robert built from the ground up, literally working out of his basement. By 2000, BRAK Systems had grown enough to catch the attention of AT&T Canada, which acquired the company for over $30 million. After a brief stint as VP of Sales at Ramp Network, Robert was back in the game, launching The Herjavec Group in 2003.

This new venture would become Robert’s crowning achievement. Focused on cybersecurity solutions, The Herjavec Group quickly established itself as a leader in the industry. Starting with just $400,000 in sales in its first year, the company exploded, generating $200 million in annual revenue by 2017. Today, it’s one of Canada’s top providers of IT security services, proving that Robert’s vision and hard work could create something truly extraordinary.

Shark Tank: The Man Behind the Tank

Robert Herjavec didn’t just stay behind the scenes—he became a household name thanks to his role on Shark Tank. Alongside fellow sharks like Mark Cuban, Daymond John, and Barbara Corcoran, Robert has helped countless entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life. One of his most successful investments was in Tipsy Elves, a quirky clothing company. For $100,000, he took a 10% stake in the business, which went on to generate $70 million in sales by 2018. That’s the kind of deal-making that makes Robert stand out.

Writing and Inspiring Others

Robert’s journey didn’t stop with business and TV. He’s also an author, sharing his wisdom through books like Driven: How to Succeed in Business and Life (2010), The Will to Win: Leading, Competing, Succeeding (2013), and You Don’t Have to Be a Shark: Creating Your Own Success (2016). These books aren’t just about making money—they’re about building a life of purpose and meaning. Robert’s writing has inspired countless readers to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they might seem.

A Life Beyond Business

Robert’s personal life has been just as eventful as his career. He married his first wife, Diane Plese, in 1990, and they had three children together. After 24 years, the couple divorced, and Diane received a $25 million settlement. The divorce was tough on Robert, leading him to battle depression and even suicidal thoughts. But through it all, Robert found strength in helping others, donating to charities and supporting causes close to his heart.

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In 2015, Robert found love again when he competed on Dancing with the Stars with partner Kym Johnson. The pair finished in sixth place, but their connection was undeniable. They tied the knot in 2017 and welcomed twins into the world. Outside of family life, Robert is a car enthusiast, owning an impressive collection that includes rare and valuable models like a 1958 Porsche 356 and a 2021 Mercedes-AMG GTR Black Series.

Awards and Recognition

Robert’s hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2011, he received the Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award, and in 2012, he was named Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year in Ontario for the Technology category. He was also awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his contributions to Canada. These accolades are a testament to his impact, both in business and in the community.

Real Estate Empire

Robert’s success extends beyond the boardroom and into the world of real estate. In 2000, he purchased a mansion in Toronto’s exclusive Bridle Path neighborhood for $7 million, which he sold in 2020 for $17.4 million. In 2019, he bought a home in Hidden Hills, California, for $14.6 million, flipping it for $17 million just two years later. In 2023, he splurged on a new mansion in Hidden Hills, a 14,700-square-foot estate on 7.4 acres, for $26 million. He and his wife, Kym, also own a vacation home in Newport Beach, California, and a residence back in Toronto.

Robert’s journey is a reminder that success isn’t just about money—it’s about resilience, passion, and the ability to adapt. From a kid with nothing but a suitcase to a billionaire with a global impact, Robert Herjavec’s story is one that continues to inspire millions around the world.