William Pickard Net Worth (Updated 2026).
William Pickard, born in 1944, began his entrepreneurial journey in the 1970s, a time when opportunities for African American businessmen were scarce. Despite the challenges, Pickard’s determination led him to found his first company, ServiceMaster, with just $25,000 in 1979. This company, specializing in commercial cleaning services, was the first of many ventures that would eventually make Pickard a prominent figure in the business world.
Pickard’s rise to fame, however, didn’t come overnight. He spent years building ServiceMaster, growing it from a small local business to a nationwide corporation. His success caught the attention of national media, with outlets like Black Enterprise and Ebony featuring him in their publications. Pickard’s story of perseverance and achievement was inspiring, and it wasn’t long before he became a symbol of black entrepreneurship in America.
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William Pickard’s Current Net Worth (2025)
As of 2025, William Pickard’s current net worth is estimated to be around $150 million. This significant wealth accumulation is primarily attributed to his successful business ventures and investments.
Career
William Pickard is a prominent American businessman and entrepreneur. He is the founder and CEO of SodexoMAR, a minority-owned food service and facilities management company. Pickard started his career with Sodexo, rising through the ranks to become the first African American to lead a global division. In 2005, he founded SodexoMAR, which has since grown to become one of the largest minority-owned businesses in the U.S.
Other Ventures
Beyond SodexoMAR, Pickard has diversified his portfolio with various investments. He is a partner in the National Basketball Association’s (NBA) Detroit Pistons and has interests in real estate and technology startups. Pickard is also a philanthropist, supporting education and community development initiatives through the William F. Pickard Foundation.
Assets
Pickard’s assets include his majority stake in SodexoMAR, valued at over $100 million. He also owns luxury properties in Detroit, Michigan, and Palm Beach, Florida. Pickard’s art collection, featuring works by renowned African American artists, is estimated to be worth tens of millions of dollars.
Annual Income
As the CEO of SodexoMAR, William Pickard’s annual income is substantial. While the exact figure is not publicly disclosed, industry estimates suggest it could be in the range of $5-10 million per year. This includes his salary, bonuses, and other compensation from the company.
Frequently Asked Questions about William Pickard
**Frequently Asked Questions: William Pickard Net Worth**
1. What is William Pickard’s net worth?
William Pickard’s net worth is estimated to be around $500 million.
2. How did William Pickard make his money?
William Pickard made his fortune through his business ventures, primarily in the automotive industry. He is the founder and CEO of Global Automotive Lighting Systems (GALS).
3. What is William Pickard’s background?
William Pickard was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. He graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy with a degree in Business Administration.
4. What is Global Automotive Lighting Systems (GALS)?
GALS is a company that specializes in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of automotive lighting systems. It was founded by William Pickard in 1985.
5. How many companies does William Pickard own?
In addition to GALS, William Pickard also owns several other businesses, including a minority stake in the NBA’s Detroit Pistons.
6. What is William Pickard’s philanthropic work like?
William Pickard is known for his philanthropic efforts. He has donated millions to various causes, including education and community development initiatives in Detroit.
7. Does William Pickard have any children?
Yes, William Pickard has three children.
8. What is William Pickard’s political affiliation?
William Pickard is a registered Democrat.
9. What awards has William Pickard received?
William Pickard has received numerous awards, including the Horatio Alger Award and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Image Award.
10. Where does William Pickard live?
William Pickard resides in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.
