David Arthur Duffield is an American entrepreneur known for his significant contributions to the software industry. He has co-founded several notable companies, including PeopleSoft and Workday, Inc., and currently serves as the co-CEO of Ridgeline, Inc. Duffield has been a consistent presence on Forbes’ list of the world’s richest people for many years, reflecting his successful career.
Duffield’s career in enterprise software took off later in life. At the age of 47, he co-founded PeopleSoft in 1987, which became a leading provider of human resources software. PeopleSoft grew rapidly and was eventually acquired by Oracle in 2005 for $10.7 billion in cash.
Not one to rest on his laurels, Duffield continued to innovate in the software industry. In 2005, he co-founded Workday, Inc., a company specializing in human resources and finance software. Workday went public in 2012, further cementing Duffield’s reputation as a successful entrepreneur. He served as the chairman of Workday until his resignation in April 2021.
In 2017, Duffield founded his sixth enterprise software company, Ridgeline, Inc., which focuses on providing cloud software solutions for investment managers. As the CEO of Ridgeline, Duffield continues to influence the software industry with his extensive experience and vision.
Beyond his business ventures, David Duffield is also known for his philanthropy. He has donated approximately $800 million to various causes, including animal welfare and education, through his family foundation and Maddie’s Fund. His charitable efforts demonstrate his commitment to giving back to the community and supporting important social causes.
David Duffield’s journey from founding PeopleSoft and Workday to leading Ridgeline showcases his enduring impact on the software industry. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to philanthropy have left a lasting legacy, making him a notable figure in both the business and charitable worlds.
