Born in India, Sir Owen and his family moved to Auckland, New Zealand in 1952. 

At the age of 30, Sir Owen started an air transportation company.  In 1975 he started his own marine consolidation business which he eventually sold in 2012.  He started his philanthropic endeavours in the mid 1970’s, when he made his first financial donation towards schools, nurseries, hospices and institutions for those with mental and physical challenges of all ages in Macau (now part of China). 

His success was evident as the Founder and Executive Chairman of Vanguard Logistics Services, the USA’s largest neutral non-vessel operating common carrier and among the top five largest NVOCCs in the world. 

Sir Owen has a longstanding track record of not just his business success but his generous charitable donations. He has the principal belief that the enhancement of society will occur when resources are provided for health, basic resources and needs, as well as the enlightenment of people.

Accolades & Accomplishments

In the 2008 New Year Honours, Sir Owen was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to business and the community which he received from Prince Charles at a ceremony held at Buckingham Palace.

In May 2011, Sir Owen was awarded CPA Australia‘s highest honour—Honorary Fellow of CPA (FCPA)—in recognition of his global entrepreneurial success.

In the 2013 New Year Honours, Sir Owen was promoted to Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to philanthropy.

Commemorates appointment to KNZM

Making A Difference

Find out more about the story behind Sir Owen Glenn’s global business success and major philanthropic contributions.

From humble beginnings in New Zealand, Owen Glenn built up a highly successful global business empire and now he is focusing his wealth to deliver significant philanthropic benefits here and overseas.

This fascinating memoir gives insight into Owen’s business philosophies and commercial strategies, especially regarding international business expansion and success. It also describes how Owen is now using his considerable energies to contribute to the world in a philanthropic sense through the Glenn Family Foundation.

In addition, it covers some of his ideas about the best way forward for New Zealand. He is keen to see the country he loves succeed. This is a great read, inspiring and aspirational. Buy now

SirOwenGlenn-Bookcover

Speaking Engagements & Philanthropic Partnership

Sir Owen enjoys travelling the world and seeing the impact of the activities and projects he has supported over the years. He is available for speaking engagements and welcomes you to join him on his philanthropic adventure.

For enquiries or further information contact us.

“He is tough as nails, with a heart of gold.” – Bob Hackett

“While today he indulges in the sport of kings and wines and dines with the best, he never forgets his friends nor has he lost the common touch.” – Jimmy Keir

Can you believe…Sir Owen was once written up by a school headmaster as “devoid of leadership qualities and did not take responsibilities seriously”.

Can you believe…Sir Owen holds the St. George Hockey Club single-match goal record… with six goals!

Can you believe…Sir Owen once walked two miles to repay a 2 cent debt… since then he’s been given everyone his 2 cents.

“Owen Glenn’s business coat of arms should bear the following words:  facta non verba (deeds not words)” – Charles Downey

“Be honest with him and always stay on his side. I assure you, you will be in awe of him. Beware – he takes prisoners.” – Lauren Reeves

Can you believe… Sir Peter Sellers and Prince Charles both had the honour of riding in the lift at Harrods, operated by Sir Owen himself.

“Owen is one of nature’s ‘givers.’ He takes great enjoyment in sharing the benefits of his success with others. If he was down to his last ten dollars, there would be enough for two pints: one for his friend.” – Simon Morse

“Highlights of Sir Owen Glenn:  In business, he is a focused tiger. In general, generosity. As my business partner his honesty, vision and integrity. As a mate, his loyalty: the best.” – Malcolm Bush

Can you believe…upon migrating from India to New Zealand, Sir Owen skipped Form 2 altogether and went straight to Form 3.