The Businessman Behind the Arizona Diamondbacks

Ken Kendrick has made a name for himself in both the business and sports worlds. He's the mastermind behind the Arizona Diamondbacks, a Major League Baseball team. But his journey didn't start on the baseball field. Born in the small town of Princeton, West Virginia, Kendrick earned a degree in business administration. His first big break came at IBM, where he honed his tech skills. But he didn't stop there. He co-founded Datatel, a software company that catered to universities. The company grew so big that it merged with SunGard Higher Education to form Ellucian, a major player in the education tech scene. Kendrick's business savvy didn't stop at software. He also invested in Woodforest National Bank, showing his knack for smart financial moves. But baseball is where his heart truly lies. He joined the Arizona Diamondbacks ownership team in 1995 and took on the role of managing general partner in 2004. Under his leadership, the team has seen some serious success, including multiple championships. Kendrick's love for the game is evident in his impressive collection of baseball memorabilia, which has been showcased in some pretty prestigious places. Kendrick's net worth is a whopping 1. 2 billion dollars. He's made his fortune through smart investments and entrepreneurial ventures. From software to banking to real estate, he's got his fingers in many pies. In 2021, he even joined a group of investors to buy Collectors, a company that authenticates memorabilia. It's clear that Kendrick knows how to spot a good opportunity. The Diamondbacks have thrived under Kendrick's leadership. He's focused on both competitive excellence and financial responsibility. The team's payroll has peaked at around 184 million dollars, showing his commitment to building a strong team. But it's not all about the money. Kendrick has also made a big impact through charity. The Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation, which he oversees, has donated millions to local causes. Kendrick's leadership hasn't been without controversy. Some of his decisions have ruffled feathers, but he remains focused on long-term success. Off the field, Kendrick's wife, Randy, is also making waves. She's a major political donor and philanthropist, supporting conservative causes and charitable initiatives. Together, the Kendricks are a power couple, blending sports, business, and politics in a unique way. The Kendrick family values privacy and tradition. Ken and Randy have two children, Cal and Catie, who have largely stayed out of the public eye. The family's focus on community, education, and values-based leadership is a testament to their roots. Despite their success, they remain grounded, using their platform to make a positive impact.