Hey there! Have you ever wondered about the man who's set to take the helm of one of the world's most famous companies, Berkshire Hathaway? Let's dive into the career of Greg Abel and his long history with the company.
Step 1: The Beginning of a Long Partnership
So, how long has Greg Abel been with Berkshire Hathaway? The answer is over three decades, but it's not as simple as him just joining the company on a specific date. His journey with Berkshire Hathaway began in 1999, through a strategic acquisition. He was working at an energy company called MidAmerican Energy at the time.
The MidAmerican Energy Connection
Greg Abel's career in the energy sector began in 1992 when he joined CalEnergy, a geothermal electricity producer.
In 1999, CalEnergy acquired MidAmerican Energy and adopted its name.
It was in that same year, 1999, that Berkshire Hathaway acquired a controlling interest in MidAmerican Energy. This is the key moment when Greg Abel's professional life became intertwined with the Berkshire family.
Tip: Don’t rush — enjoy the read.
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| How Long Has Greg Abel Been With Berkshire Hathaway |
Step 2: Rising Through the Ranks in the Energy Sector
From that point on, Greg Abel proved himself to be a dedicated and capable leader. He didn't just join Berkshire Hathaway; he became a crucial part of its energy business.
From President to CEO to Chairman
He became president of MidAmerican Energy in 1999.
In 2008, he was named the CEO of MidAmerican.
In 2011, he added the title of chairman to his role.
The company was renamed Berkshire Hathaway Energy (BHE) in 2014, and Abel continued to lead it. Under his leadership, BHE grew into a massive utility with over $90 billion in assets and subsidiaries in multiple countries.
Step 3: A Broader Role at Berkshire Hathaway Inc.
Tip: Keep scrolling — each part adds context.
Abel's success in the energy sector caught the attention of Warren Buffett, and his role expanded significantly beyond energy.
From Energy Leader to Vice Chairman
In January 2018, while remaining executive chairman of Berkshire Hathaway Energy, Greg Abel was appointed vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway Inc.'s non-insurance operations.
This was a major promotion that placed him in charge of a vast portfolio of businesses, including BNSF Railway, Dairy Queen, See's Candies, and many others. He became one of Buffett's top lieutenants and a trusted figure within the company.
Step 4: The Official Successor
The question of who would succeed Warren Buffett had been a topic of speculation for years. In 2021, the answer became clear.
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Public Confirmation and the Future
In 2021, Charlie Munger, Berkshire's late vice chairman, let it slip at the annual meeting that Greg Abel was the designated successor.
Warren Buffett later confirmed this, stating that Abel would be the one to take over as CEO if something were to happen to him.
Most recently, in May 2025, Warren Buffett announced that he would be stepping down as CEO at the end of the year and recommended Greg Abel as his successor. Abel is set to formally become CEO on January 1, 2026.
In summary, Greg Abel has been with a company controlled by Berkshire Hathaway since 1999, and he has been a direct executive at Berkshire Hathaway Inc. since 2018. His long tenure and proven leadership in various roles have led him to become Warren Buffett's chosen successor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get started in the energy sector like Greg Abel? Greg Abel's career in the energy sector began after he worked at a firm in public accounting. He joined a geothermal electricity producer in 1992, eventually rising to lead a major energy company.
Tip: The middle often holds the main point.
How to become a CEO of a large company? Abel's journey shows a path of consistent hard work and leadership, starting in a specific industry and then taking on increasingly larger roles with more responsibility over time.
How to manage a diverse portfolio of businesses? As vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway's non-insurance operations, Greg Abel oversees over 90 subsidiaries, including a railroad, retail stores, and manufacturing companies, demonstrating a management style that focuses on oversight of a diverse range of businesses.
How to be a successful executive in a decentralized company? Abel has earned a reputation as a no-nonsense operator with excellent business instincts and has been a trusted lieutenant for Warren Buffett for many years.
How to get noticed by a legendary investor like Warren Buffett? Abel's rise at Berkshire was a result of his success in leading the energy business, a key part of the Berkshire portfolio, and demonstrating a strong work ethic.
How to prepare for a CEO transition? Greg Abel has been working closely with Warren Buffett and has been publicly designated as the successor since 2021, gradually taking on more responsibilities.
How to lead with a hands-on management style? Abel's management style is described as more hands-on and operational compared to Buffett's more laissez-faire approach.
How to continue a company's culture after a founder steps down? It is expected that Abel will continue to preserve Berkshire's decentralized culture with an emphasis on independence, integrity, and trust.
How to get a promotion within a company? Abel's career path at Berkshire shows a clear progression from president to CEO to chairman of a subsidiary, and then to a vice chairman role for the parent company, indicating consistent promotions based on his performance.
How to gain the confidence of a board of directors? Abel's track record and the trust placed in him by Warren Buffett and the late Charlie Munger show that his leadership skills have earned him the confidence of the company's leadership.
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