Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Klaus Schwab

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 25, 2025

How Klaus Schwab built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Klaus Schwab is a German engineer and economist, best known as the founder of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in 1971. He spearheaded the WEF, acting as its chairman until 2025, and has been a prominent figure in global discussions on economic and social issues. The WEF, under his leadership, became a platform for world leaders to collaborate on shaping global, regional, and industry agendas. He was succeeded as chairman by Peter Brabeck-Letmathe.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

1971: Founded European Management Forum

In 1971, Klaus Schwab founded the European Management Forum, which later became the World Economic Forum.

1971: Founded World Economic Forum

In 1971, Klaus Schwab founded the World Economic Forum (WEF), originally named the European Management Forum.

1972: Professor at the University of Geneva

In 1972, Klaus Schwab became a professor of business policy at the University of Geneva.

1998: Schwab Foundation Founded

In 1998, Klaus Schwab and his wife Hilde created the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship.

2003: Appointed CEO of WEF

In 2003, Klaus Schwab appointed José María Figueres CEO of the World Economic Forum (WEF) as his successor.

2003: Honorary Professor

In 2003, Klaus Schwab became an honorary professor at the University of Geneva.

2011: Founded Global Shapers Community

In 2011, Klaus Schwab founded the Global Shapers Community within the WEF to work with young people.

2015: Introduced the Phrase Fourth Industrial Revolution

In 2015, Klaus Schwab introduced the phrase "Fourth Industrial Revolution" to a wider audience in an article published by Foreign Affairs.

October 2016: Forum Announced Opening of Centre

In October 2016, the Forum announced the opening of its Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution in San Francisco.

2016: Published "The Fourth Industrial Revolution" Book

In 2016, Klaus Schwab wrote "The Fourth Industrial Revolution", an idea he is credited with popularising.

Fourth Industrial Revolution

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April 2025: Resignation from WEF

On 21 April 2025, Klaus Schwab resigned from his position as Chair and member of the Board of Trustees of the WEF, with immediate effect, amidst accusations.