Robert Reffkin, a pioneering Black business leader, co-founded Compass, Inc., and now leads the company as its CEO. Hailing from Berkeley, California, he overcame early challenges and, at just 15, launched his first business — a DJ company funded by the savings from his bar mitzvah and babysitting gigs.
During his teenage years, Reffkin was actively engaged with the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship. In 2007, he established New York Needs You (now, America Needs You) to mentor low-income college students and nurture their career growth.
In 2012, Robert Reffkin and Ori Allon founded Compass, Inc., an online real estate tech firm. This venture drew inspiration from his mother’s experiences as a real estate agent, seeking to empower agents by harnessing technology to boost their branding, data analysis capabilities, and market insights.
Compass made its stock market debut in April 2021, catapulting Reffkin’s net worth to new heights. His unwavering dedication to learning and mentorship culminated in the co-authorship of “No One Succeeds Alone: Learn Everything You Can from Everyone You Can,” published in 2021.
Billionaires.Africa, has identified companies linked to Reffkin.
The following are a few companies in which he owns significant stakes or interests:
- Compass
Compass, a U.S.-based residential real estate brokerage, boasts a significant market share of 4.5 percent. In the year 2022 alone, it closed 211,538 real estate transactions valued at $230.3 billion. The company, which offers comprehensive brokerage services, home improvement loans, and bridge loans for down payments on new homes, counts SoftBank Vision Fund as a major investor, with a substantial 31.1-percent stake. Founded by Reffkin in 2012, Compass has emerged as a true industry leader under his guidance, achieving over half a trillion dollars in total sales. Notably, Reffkin holds a 2.3-percent stake in Compass’ normal Class-A stock and complete ownership of its Class C stock, which wields 20 times the voting power of standard shares.
- America Needs You
America Needs You (ANY), a non-profit foundation founded by Reffkin, is dedicated to empowering first-generation college students. ANY offers an intensive two-year mentoring program that equips students with invaluable mentorship, professional development, and essential career guidance. By providing resources and unwavering support, ANY assists students in navigating the challenges of higher education and the transition into the workforce. Reffkin, a distinguished entrepreneur and philanthropist, has been deeply committed to philanthropic efforts, exemplified by his remarkable feat of running fifty marathons, one in each U.S. state, to raise a remarkable $1 million for various charitable causes.
- Platinum Drive Realty, Inc
Nestled in the heart of New York, Platinum Drive Realty, Inc. is intrinsically linked to the vision of Reffkin. Specializing in real estate brokerage services, this company is renowned for its expertise in single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. Under Reffkin’s guidance, Platinum Drive Realty stands as a testament to excellence in the real estate industry, helping clients find their dream homes and investment properties in one of the most competitive real estate markets in the world.
