Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen (; born 27 December 1947) is a Danish businessman who was the president and chief executive officer of the Lego Group from 1979 to 2004. According to Forbes, Kristiansen has an estimated net worth of billion as of December 2025. He is the grandson of Lego founder Ole Kirk Christiansen.
Early life and education
Kristiansen was born 27 December 1947 in Billund, Denmark. His father, Godtfred Kirk Christiansen, worked with his grandfather, Ole Kirk Christiansen, in the family business: Lego. As a child, he often inspired and tested new model concepts and their building instructions. He also appeared on many of the company's packages and marketing materials.
Business career
In 1979, Kristiansen became president and CEO of The Lego Group. He introduced themes, minifigures, LEGO.com, Lego Mindstorms and licensed properties.
In 1995, Kristiansen bought Strathconon Estate, in the highlands of Scotland, covering . He later bought the neighbouring Scardroy and Ledgowan estates.
Awards
He has received many awards in his professional career.
- Knight 1st Class (Officer) of Denmark's Order of the Dannebrog
- 1996: The Freedom Prize from the , Switzerland
- 1996: Distinguished Family Business Award from the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), Switzerland
- Moran (Peony) insignia of the Order of Civil Merit from the Korean government
- Founder's Award from Dean Kamen
- 2008: he was inducted in the National Toy Hall of Fame.
See also
- List of billionaires