When it comes to the world of entrepreneurship and co-working spaces, few names are as recognizable as Miguel McKelvey. As the co-founder of WeWork, McKelvey has made a significant impact on the way we view and utilize office spaces. This article delves into the life, career, and net worth of this influential figure, providing a comprehensive look at the man behind the WeWork phenomenon.
Early Life and Education
Miguel McKelvey was born in 1974 in Eugene, Oregon. Raised by a single mother in a commune, he was exposed to a diverse and communal lifestyle from a young age. This early exposure to shared living spaces would later influence his business ventures. McKelvey attended the University of Oregon, where he earned a degree in architecture.
Beginning of Career
After graduating, McKelvey moved to Tokyo, where he worked for a small architectural firm. He later relocated to New York City and joined a design firm. It was here that he met Adam Neumann, with whom he would later co-found WeWork.
Co-founding WeWork
In 2010, McKelvey and Neumann launched WeWork, a company that provides shared workspaces for startups, freelancers, and small businesses. The idea was to create a community-oriented workspace that fostered collaboration and innovation. WeWork quickly gained popularity, expanding to multiple locations across the globe.
Role at WeWork
As the Chief Culture Officer, McKelvey was responsible for ensuring that the company’s culture remained intact as it expanded. He played a crucial role in designing the layout of WeWork spaces, ensuring they fostered the sense of community that the company aimed to promote.
Net Worth
Despite the controversies and financial struggles that WeWork has faced, McKelvey has amassed a considerable fortune. As of 2021, his net worth is estimated to be around $400 million. This wealth is largely due to his stake in WeWork, which, despite its troubles, remains a significant player in the co-working space industry.
Life Beyond WeWork
McKelvey stepped down from his role at WeWork in 2020, but his influence on the company and the co-working industry as a whole remains undeniable. He continues to be an influential figure in the world of entrepreneurship and has expressed interest in focusing on other projects that promote community and collaboration.
In conclusion, Miguel McKelvey’s journey from a commune in Oregon to co-founding one of the most recognizable brands in the co-working industry is nothing short of inspiring. His innovative approach to workspace design and his emphasis on community have left a lasting impact on the way we work. Despite stepping down from WeWork, McKelvey’s influence continues to be felt, and his future ventures are eagerly anticipated.