William E Macaulay

Grew up in the Bronx. Studied economics at City College of New York; then Wharton M.B.A. Learned investing at Oppenheimer from Wall Street legend Leon Levy. Cofounded private equity outfit First Reserve; launched first buyout fund 1992. Invested $10 million in drilling equipment producer National Oilwell 1996; reaped $240 million selling stake over 6 years. Plowed First Reserve proceeds into several coal companies in 2004; has made $1.3 billion in net profits since. Funds have reportedly returned 26% annually since inception. Assets under management: $16.5 billion. Donated $30 million to City University of New York last year. Enjoys bird-watching.