Charles Koch

Who is Charles Koch?

Charles de Ganahl Koch is an American businessman and philanthropist. He is co-owner, chairman of the board, and chief executive officer of Koch Industries, while his brother David H. Koch serves as Executive Vice President. Charles and David each own 42% of the conglomerate. The brothers inherited the business from their father, Fred C. Koch, then expanded the business. Originally involved exclusively in oil refining and chemicals, Koch Industries now includes process and pollution control equipment and technologies; polymers and fibers; minerals; fertilizers; commodity trading and services; forest and consumer products; and ranching. The businesses produce a wide variety of well-known brands, such as Stainmaster carpet, the Lycra brand of spandex fiber, Quilted Northern tissue and Dixie Cup.

In 2007, Koch's book The Science of Success was published. The book describes his management philosophy, referred to as "Market-Based Management". In 2012, a series of web videos was compiled into the film Koch Brothers Exposed, accusing Koch Industries of environmental and political misdeeds.