Over the past 4 decades, Donald Bren has established himself as one of the most successful California real estate investors. As chairman of the Irvine Company, Mr. Bren has led the century-old company in yielding substantial earnings through its residential and commercial property in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego and Silicon Valley.
To begin his trek in establishing himself as one of the most successful Southern California real estate investors, Mr. Bren began his business career by founding the Bren Company, building homes in Orange County, California. Soon after, he formed the Mission Viejo Company and began his legacy of master planning and development by constructing the 11,000 acre new community of Mission Viejo in Orange County. Bren solidified his influence on California real estate when he teamed with investors to purchase The Irvine Company in 1977. His 34% share in the company made Bren the largest shareholder which led him to become a member of the company's executive committee and vice chairman. Later in 1983, Donald purchased shares of this privately held company from other shareholders to secure a 92% ownership of the company. Donald Bren was elected chairman of the board and became the company's sole share holder in 1996.
Today, The Irvine Company operates 400 office buildings, 35 retail centers, 80 apartment communities, two hotels, five marinas and three golf clubs throughout Southern California. Similar to establishing himself as one of the most successful California real estate investors, Donald Bren has also worked hard to solidify himself as significant philanthropist. To learn more of Bren's philanthropy interests, please view the Philanthropy page.
