How did Mike Cannon-Brookes get so rich? [Net Worth 2023]

Mike Cannon-Brookes is an Australian entrepreneur and the co-founder of Atlassian Corporation, a software firm specializing on tools for software developers, project managers, and content management. The company is well-known for developing tools such as Jira, Confluence, and Bitbucket.

Atlassian was formed in 2002 by Mike Cannon-Brookes and his business partner Scott Farquhar while they were both undergraduates at the University of New South Wales in Sydney. They began the company with a modest investment, and its first product, Jira, quickly became famous among software development teams.

Atlassian’s products became extensively used in the IT industry over time, and the firm achieved substantial growth. In 2015, it became public, listing on the NASDAQ stock exchange. Atlassian’s IPO (initial public offering) assisted in raising significant funds and increasing the company’s valuation.

Mike Cannon-Brookes’ fortune stems mostly from his ownership position in Atlassian, which grew into a multibillion-dollar corporation. He controls a considerable amount of the company’s shares as co-founder and co-CEO, and Atlassian’s success has contributed to his riches.

That wealth creation is frequently the consequence of a variety of circumstances, such as the success of the firm, the demand for its products, effective management, market conditions, and so on.

Famous quotes of Mike Cannon-Brookes

Here are a couple of quotes attributed to him:

1. “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” This quote reflects Cannon-Brookes’ emphasis on innovation and taking an active role in shaping the future through entrepreneurial endeavors.
2. “Don’t die with your music still inside you.” This quote emphasizes the importance of pursuing one’s passions and making the most of one’s potential during their lifetime.

Lesser-Known facts about Mike Cannon-Brookes

While Mike Cannon-Brookes is a well-known entrepreneur, there are a few things about him that are less well-known:

1. Initial Entrepreneurship: Mike Cannon-Brookes was active in many entrepreneurial efforts during his academic years prior to co-founding Atlassian. To raise money, he once sold flavored ice treats to fellow students and even arranged and hosted LAN parties (gaming events).
2. Inspiration from ‘The Apprentice’: According to Cannon-Brookes, he was inspired to establish a business after watching the reality TV show “The Apprentice.” His interest in entrepreneurship was ignited by the show’s emphasis on business issues and prospects.
3. Environmental Advocacy: Cannon-Brookes is well-known for his passion for environmental sustainability and renewable energy. He has been involved in renewable energy and sustainable technology initiatives and investments. In 2020, he launched “Fair Dinkum Power,” a campaign to spur government and commercial action on renewable energy.
4. Real Estate Purchases: Cannon-Brookes made headlines for acquiring a number of significant properties. In 2018, he purchased the Fairwater estate in Sydney, one of the most expensive homes in the country. In addition, in 2020, he and his wife purchased the former home of Australia’s Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull.
5. Passion for Space Exploration: Cannon-Brookes has shown a desire to learn more about space exploration and the commercial space business. He has invested in various space-related enterprises, notably Fleet Space Technologies, an Australian space firm that focuses on delivering worldwide connectivity for the Internet of Things (IoT).
6. The World’s Youngest Billionaires: When Atlassian went public in 2015, Mike Cannon-Brookes and his co-founder Scott Farquhar became two of Australia’s youngest self-made millionaires. This was a key turning point in their entrepreneurial path.
7. Personal Philanthropy: Cannon-Brookes is a philanthropist. He has contributed to educational institutions and has supported programs addressing social and environmental issues.
8. Focus on Company Culture: At Atlassian, Cannon-Brookes is known for emphasizing company culture. The company’s ideals and distinct management approach have aided its growth and recognized as a wonderful place to work.

What companies does Mike Cannon-Brookes own?

Mike Cannon-Brookes is best known as the co-founder and co-CEO of Atlassian, a well-known software firm. Atlassian is well-known for developing tools such as Jira, Confluence, and Bitbucket, which are popular among software engineers, project managers, and content management teams.

Mike Cannon-Brookes, on the other hand, has been involved in a number of projects and efforts connected to renewable energy, technology, and other businesses. He has invested in and sponsored a number of businesses and startups, including:

1. Fleet Space Technologies: An Australian space business focused on offering worldwide Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity via a network of tiny satellites.
2. Grok Learning: An online platform where students may learn programming and computational thinking through interactive coding courses.
3. Brilliant: A fintech firm that offers funding for household solar and home upgrades.
4. Atlassian Ventures: Atlassian Ventures, while not a separate firm, is Atlassian’s investment arm that focuses on supporting and investing emerging entrepreneurs in the broader technology ecosystem.

What is net worth of Mike Cannon-Brookes?

Cannon-Brookes net worth is around $12.0 billion.

What Philanthropic initiatives is Cannon-Brookwa involved in?

Mike Cannon-Brookes has been active with a number of philanthropic efforts, frequently concentrating on environmental sustainability, education, and social impact. Among the charity projects and initiatives with which he has been involved are:

1. The Cannon-Brookes Family Foundation :The Cannon-Brookes Family Foundation was founded by Mike Cannon-Brookes and his wife, Annie Cannon-Brookes. This nonprofit focuses on education, environmental protection, and social impact programs.
2. 1% for the Environment: Atlassian CEO Mike Cannon-Brookes vowed in 2019 to donate 1% of its earnings to environmental initiatives as part of the “1% for the Planet” program. This pledge represents both his personal and corporate commitment to environmental sustainability.
3. Great Barrier Reef Foundation: Cannon-Brookes has participated in attempts to safeguard the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most iconic and threatened natural treasures.
4. Energy Transition Hub: He has expressed an interest in promoting renewable energy alternatives and has invested in projects and efforts aimed at achieving a clean and sustainable energy transition.
5. Social Impact Investing: Cannon-Brookes has been outspoken about leveraging his power and wealth to promote positive social change. He has expressed an interest in using impact investing to address global issues such as clean energy availability and sustainable technologies.
6. Initiatives in Green Technology: Aside from his personal endeavors, Cannon-Brookes has backed and invested in a number of green technology firms and projects with the goal of accelerating the adoption of sustainable technologies.

What are some real stories of Cannon-Brookes leadership?

Mike Cannon-Brookes is well-known for his charismatic leadership and his role in co-founding and heading Atlassian. The following are some themes and principles that demonstrate his leadership style:

1. Focus on workplace Culture: At Atlassian, Cannon-Brookes lays a great emphasis on creating a good and empowering workplace culture. The organization is noted for its distinctive beliefs, such as “Open Company, No Bullsh*t,” which promotes openness, honesty, and open communication among employees.
2. Innovation and Taking Risks: He pushes staff to take risks and think outside the box because he loves innovation. This strategy resulted in the development of solutions such as Jira, which transformed project management in the software industry.
3. Listening and Participation: Cannon-Brookes is well-known for his collaborative approach and active listening skills. He welcomes employee feedback and seeks varied opinions to make educated decisions.
4. Employee Empowerment: He believes in empowering employees and providing them the freedom to own their work. This technique instills in team members a sense of responsibility and inventiveness.
5. Long-Term Vision: Cannon-Brookes sees Atlassian and the industry as a whole in the long term. He promotes sustainable growth and using technology to make a positive impact on society.
6. Action-Oriented Leadership: He believes that enterprises should serve a purpose other than profit. This is consistent with his involvement in environmental and social causes.
7. Lead by Example: Cannon-Brookes leads by example, adopting the organizational principles he promotes. His constancy in words and behavior fosters confidence and credibility.
8. Adaptability: He understands the value of adaptation in a rapidly changing business environment. Atlassian’s capacity to adapt and pivot in response to market demands exemplifies this attitude.

What can you learn from Mike Cannon-Brookes?

There are various useful lessons and insights that individuals may acquire from Mike Cannon-Brookes, particularly in the context of entrepreneurship, leadership, and creating a positive influence. Here are some crucial points to remember:

1. Innovation and Risk-Taking: Cannon-Brookes emphasizes the significance of thinking outside the box and daring to upset existing norms. Accepting innovation can lead to game-changing ideas and corporate success.
2. Company Culture: His emphasis on developing a strong company culture based on transparency, honesty, and open communication emphasizes the importance of a positive work environment. Employee satisfaction, teamwork, and overall productivity can all be boosted by fostering a favorable culture.
3. Long-Term Vision: Cannon-Brookes’ dedication to long-term goals and sustainable growth serves as a reminder that companies should emphasize long-term effect over short-term gains. A clear vision and purpose can help to guide decisions and activities.
4. Environmental and Social Responsibilities: His participation in environmental efforts exemplifies the significance of corporate social responsibility. Leaders have the power and resources to address societal and environmental issues.
5. Empowerment and Collaboration: The strategy of Cannon-Brookes of empowering employees and appreciating multiple ideas generates a sense of ownership and innovation. Collaboration can result in more informed decisions and better outcomes.
6. Aptitude for Change: Staying relevant and competitive requires being open to change and responding to changing market conditions. His versatility in dealing with obstacles emphasizes the value of adaptability.
7. Philanthropy and Volunteering: His charitable contributions demonstrate the beneficial impact that individuals may have on their communities and the planet. Leaders can help to address societal concerns by strategically giving and supporting others.
8. Cannon-Brookes’ emphasis on active listening and soliciting advice from others underscores the importance of ongoing learning. Engaging with different points of view can help you make better decisions.
9. Lead by Example: Cannon-Brookes’ constancy in his words and actions emphasizes the value of honesty in leadership. Leading by example can instill trust and respect in others.