Nicky Oppenheimer – a South African businessman and conservationist – joined the Anglo-American Corporation in 1968, serving as a director from 1974 until his retirement in 2011 and as Deputy Chairman from 1983 to 2001. In 1985, Nicky became Chairman of the Diamond Trading Company and Deputy Chairman of De Beers Consolidated Mines. He was Chairman of the De Beers Group from 1998 to 2012. Nicky was educated at Harrow School London and University of Oxford where he studied Politics, Philosophy and Economics.

As Chairman of Oppenheimer Generations, Nicky continues his long and respected legacy of environmental and conservation leadership by serving on the board of Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve. Nicky is also a keen supporter and sponsor of the Oppenheimer Research Conference, which brings together preeminent individuals and organisations from the natural and environmental science industries across the world.

In 2005, Nicky and Jonathan established the Brenthurst Foundation, to reflect the family’s contribution to the debate around strategies and policies for strengthening Africa’s economic performance. As a Trustee of the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust, Nicky believes in education investment and that every South African has the right to a high standard of education at all levels.

Nicky holds a Doctorate in Technology, honoris causa, from the Technikon Witwatersrand in South Africa; the first recipient from the public and private sector and an Honorary Fellowship from the London Business School. Nicky is also a recipient of the Presidential Order of Honor from His Excellency the President of the Republic of Botswana, Mr. Festus Gontebanye Mogae.