Philippe Dauman's Biography

Philippe Dauman is a renowned American business executive best known for his transformative leadership at Viacom, one of the world’s largest media conglomerates. Born on March 1, 1954, Dauman pursued his higher education at Yale University and later earned his J.D. from Columbia Law School. His big break came when he became a trusted legal advisor to media mogul Sumner Redstone, which paved the way for his ascent within Viacom during the 1980s. Dauman eventually served as President and CEO, guiding the company through pivotal acquisitions, digital transitions, and content expansion. With an estimated net worth of $375 million as of 2024, much of his wealth has been amassed through lucrative executive compensation and stock awards. Known for his strategic vision, Dauman has received industry accolades, including Variety's Gotham Award for Industry Tribute. Despite a high-profile legal dispute with the Redstone family over Viacom’s control, his legacy in media remains influential. An advocate for content innovation, Dauman is recognized for saying, 'Content is the king, and distribution is the queen.' Outside the boardroom, he enjoys reading and traveling. Philippe Dauman's story is a testament to the power of strategic leadership in shaping the modern media landscape.