Table of Contents
Dean Forbes has emerged as one of the most remarkable British business success stories of recent years.
Once twice homeless and burdened with tens of thousands in debt, today he is the CEO of a leading software firm, a philanthropist, and, according to the Powerlist 2025, the most influential Black British person in the United Kingdom.
But how did he go from struggling teenager to multimillionaire? What is Dean Forbes’ net worth in 2025, and how has he built his empire?
This blog explores the life, career, and wealth of one of Britain’s most inspirational tech leaders.
Who is Dean Forbes and What is His Background?
Dean Anthony Edward Forbes was born on 18 October 1978 in Lewisham, London. Raised in a single-parent household by his Guyanese mother, who suffered from muscular dystrophy, Dean assumed a caregiving role for his younger brothers from a very young age.
Despite the challenges of his environment, he managed to pass 10 GCSEs and pursued a career in football during his teenage years.
He signed with the youth academy at Crystal Palace FC and hoped for a professional future in the sport.
At the age of 17, after being released from Crystal Palace due to injuries and other setbacks, Forbes found himself homeless for the second time.
His attempt to maintain a high-profile lifestyle with peers such as Rio Ferdinand led to personal debt of £88,000.
This moment of crisis prompted Forbes to take his first corporate role, working in a call centre for Motorola.
This job marked the beginning of his journey into the business world, setting the foundation for what would become a highly influential and lucrative career.
How Did Dean Forbes Build His Career in the UK Tech Industry?
Forbes began his professional journey in 1995 at Motorola as a sales manager. His determination and performance caught attention, and he later joined Isis Telecommunications before landing a pivotal role at Primavera Systems in 2000.
As Vice President responsible for international growth, he played a key role in expanding the firm’s global presence.
His success at Primavera culminated in a major career and financial milestone when Oracle acquired the company in 2009.
At Oracle, he served as Vice President of Worldwide Sales, overseeing global strategy and growth. After leaving Oracle in 2010, Forbes joined KDS, a travel and expense software firm.
Initially responsible for commercial operations, he was soon appointed CEO and remained in that role even after KDS was acquired by American Express Global Business Travel in 2016.
He continued this trajectory of leading and scaling companies with his appointment as CEO of CoreHR, a human resources technology company.
Under his leadership, the firm was acquired by The Access Group in 2020. Forbes then served as President at The Access Group, focusing on the people division until 2021.
In February 2021, Forbes took over as CEO of Forterro, a European enterprise software company.
His role involves leading international growth and strategic development across multiple markets, with the added benefit of holding an equity stake in the business.
What is Dean Forbes’ Current Net Worth in 2025?
As of 2025, Dean Forbes’ net worth is estimated to be over £40 million, positioning him among the most successful self-made business executives in the British technology sector.
His fortune is the result of a career spanning more than two decades, marked by a series of executive roles, company acquisitions, and equity-based compensation packages.
Unlike many entrepreneurs who build their wealth through founding startups, Forbes’ wealth accumulation stems from his ability to transform existing businesses into high-value assets.
His strategic leadership has repeatedly led to corporate acquisitions and equity payouts that significantly boosted his financial standing.
A Steady Climb to Wealth and Influence
Dean Forbes’ rise in wealth mirrors his professional trajectory, from modest beginnings to becoming the CEO of Forterro, a major European enterprise software company.
His progression demonstrates how expertise, persistence, and smart decision-making can yield long-term financial rewards.
His wealth can be traced through several key milestones:
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Career Milestone | Primary Source of Wealth |
| 2009 | £1.5 million | Acquisition of Primavera Systems by Oracle | Stock options and executive payout |
| 2016 | £8 million | KDS acquired by American Express Global Business Travel | CEO equity buyout |
| 2020 | £20 million | Sale of CoreHR to The Access Group | Company shares and leadership bonus |
| 2025 | £40+ million | CEO role at Forterro and partnership at Corten Capital | Salary, equity, and private investments |
Each stage of his career reflects a deliberate move up the corporate and financial ladder. The sale of KDS in 2016 and CoreHR in 2020 were particularly lucrative, providing Forbes with substantial returns through executive equity stakes.
Earnings as CEO of Forterro
Since taking over as Chief Executive Officer of Forterro in February 2021, Forbes has overseen the company’s expansion across Europe.
Forterro, a software group specialising in enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions, has experienced consistent growth under his leadership.
As CEO, Forbes earns a seven-figure annual salary, along with performance bonuses tied to revenue and profitability targets. More significantly, his equity stake in Forterro represents the largest portion of his net worth.
Given the company’s international growth and valuation trajectory, this stake could increase substantially over the next few years.
Diverse Investment Portfolio
Beyond his executive earnings, Forbes has diversified his wealth through strategic investments and partnerships.
He is a partner at Corten Capital, a London-based private equity firm focusing on mid-market technology investments.
This partnership provides both capital appreciation opportunities and profit-sharing from portfolio exits.
In addition, he has invested in:
- Emerging tech startups in software and SaaS sectors
- Philanthropic ventures through the Forbes Family Group (FFG), which also functions as a platform for social impact investing
- Real estate holdings, including properties in London and surrounding regions
These diversified interests reflect a shift from pure salary income to asset-based wealth, a key factor distinguishing long-term wealth accumulation from short-term success.
The Powerlist Effect and Brand Value
Another contributor to Forbes’ financial status is his growing personal brand. His recognition on the Powerlist four consecutive years of inclusion, culminating in his number one ranking in 2025 has enhanced his professional visibility.
This recognition brings additional opportunities such as keynote speaking, consulting, and advisory roles that further expand his income streams.
Forbes has become a sought-after voice on leadership, diversity, and entrepreneurship. His presence on panels, conferences, and corporate boards adds both prestige and financial returns to his profile.
Comparison with Other UK Business Leaders
While Forbes’ estimated £40 million net worth is significant, it also represents a broader narrative of success within Britain’s modern tech scene.
Compared to established British tech figures like Ric Lewis or Brent Hoberman, Forbes stands out for his self-made ascent rather than inherited wealth or venture capital roots.
His journey demonstrates that wealth creation in the UK’s digital economy doesn’t solely depend on founding a startup strategic leadership and consistent performance can yield equally substantial rewards.
The Road Ahead
Given Forterro’s ongoing expansion and Forbes’ position as both CEO and equity holder, his personal wealth is expected to continue growing over the next decade.
Analysts predict that if Forterro maintains its current growth trajectory or undergoes a future acquisition or public listing, Dean Forbes’ net worth could surpass £60 million in the coming years.
His disciplined approach to reinvestment, coupled with his focus on ethical business leadership, has helped him maintain steady financial growth without compromising his personal values.
Forbes continues to prioritise social impact through his foundation, reflecting a belief that wealth and purpose can coexist.
Summary of Wealth Composition:
| Source of Wealth | Description | Estimated Share of Total Net Worth |
| Forterro Equity & Salary | CEO compensation, stock options, and performance bonuses | 55% |
| Private Investments | Stake in Corten Capital and other tech ventures | 25% |
| Real Estate Holdings | Residential and investment properties in the UK | 10% |
| Speaking & Advisory Engagements | Keynotes, consulting, and board positions | 5% |
| Philanthropic Ventures & Media | Brand value and charitable partnerships | 5% |
This balanced and diversified portfolio positions Forbes not only as a wealthy executive but as a financially strategic leader who continues to grow his wealth through multiple, well-managed channels.
Which Businesses and Companies Has Dean Forbes Worked With?
Dean Forbes has worked with and led a range of technology-driven companies across the UK and Europe.
His business acumen and leadership capabilities are evident in the variety of roles he has held across the tech industry.
Key companies and roles include:
- Motorola – Sales Manager
- Isis Telecommunications – Early career role
- Primavera Systems – Vice President, International Growth
- Oracle – Vice President, Worldwide Sales
- KDS – CEO until acquisition by Amex GBT
- CoreHR – CEO until acquisition by The Access Group
- The Access Group – President of People Division
- Forterro – Current CEO and equity stakeholder
- Corten Capital – Investment Partner
These positions reflect his deep experience in scaling businesses, navigating acquisitions, and leading organisations through complex transitions.
His ability to turn around companies and make them acquisition-ready has earned him a reputation as a high-impact executive in the UK’s technology sector.
What Are Dean Forbes’ Most Notable Achievements?
Forbes’ achievements span both corporate success and personal recognition. His executive roles have led to the successful scaling and sale of multiple tech firms, with significant financial outcomes.
Beyond financial accomplishments, he has received several accolades that highlight his broader influence.
Some of his notable achievements include:
- Named the most influential Black British person in the UK by the Powerlist in 2025
- Featured in the Powerlist annually from 2021 to 2024
- Successfully led three companies through high-value acquisitions
- Partner at private equity firm Corten Capital
- Co-founded Forbes Family Group, a foundation dedicated to supporting underrepresented youth
He was also invited to 10 Downing Street to discuss economic issues with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, reflecting his growing influence in UK economic policy discussions.
How Does Dean Forbes Inspire Future British Entrepreneurs?
Forbes is a living example of transformation through resilience and strategic thinking. His journey from homelessness and debt to corporate boardrooms shows the power of persistence, adaptability, and personal growth.
His rise is often referenced in media and by business leaders as a blueprint for success against the odds.
His motivational presence is seen in:
- Frequent speaking engagements at business forums and education events
- Mentorship of young professionals and future entrepreneurs
- Publicly sharing his journey to normalise conversations around failure and recovery
He often highlights how important it was for others to believe in him and how he now pays that forward.
His message resonates particularly with individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, encouraging them to push beyond social and economic limitations.
What Philanthropic Work and Investments Is Dean Forbes Involved In?
Dean Forbes is not only recognised for his business leadership but also for his charitable contributions.
Alongside his wife Danielle, he founded the Forbes Family Group (FFG), a philanthropic initiative focused on enabling social mobility for underrepresented communities.
The foundation invests in:
- Business training programmes for young people
- Mentorship schemes targeting minority communities
- Fundraising for health-focused charities, such as the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust
In September 2024, the foundation raised £400,000 in one evening for leukaemia research and awareness.
This work is deeply personal to Forbes, whose own daughter overcame leukaemia at the age of two.
Below is a summary of the foundation’s focus areas:
| Initiative | Description |
| Forbes Family Group (FFG) | Offers mentoring, funding, and access to resources |
| African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust | Financial support and awareness campaigns |
| Business & Entrepreneurial Training | Skill-building workshops and development programmes |
| Education Support | Scholarships and coaching for students from low-income homes |
Through these efforts, Forbes is using his success to build a legacy of giving back and fostering opportunity for others.
How Does Dean Forbes Compare to Other British Entrepreneurs?
Dean Forbes stands out in the British entrepreneurial landscape, not just for his business achievements, but for the unique nature of his background and the personal challenges he has overcome.
Unlike many who come from privileged backgrounds, Forbes’ story begins in a disadvantaged setting, with no formal business education or startup capital.
He is frequently compared with:
- Edward Enninful – Media executive and former Vogue Editor
- Ric Lewis – Founder of Tristan Capital Partners
- Sir Mo Ibrahim – Telecom billionaire and philanthropist
However, what distinguishes Forbes is his mix of lived experience, business transformation, and active philanthropy.
His leadership goes beyond financial metrics, positioning him as a purpose-driven leader shaping the future of both business and society.
What Can We Learn From Dean Forbes’ Success Story?
Dean Forbes’ journey offers valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in modern Britain. His path has not been straightforward or conventional.
Instead, it demonstrates that setbacks can serve as fuel for growth when met with the right mindset.
Key lessons from his experience include:
- Failure can be a foundation for future success
- Authenticity and openness about challenges build stronger leadership
- Strategic thinking and resilience are more critical than formal credentials
- Giving back amplifies the impact of individual success
His story continues to inspire thousands across the UK, particularly young people who see in him a relatable and reachable role model.
Conclusion
Dean Forbes is not just a successful business executive he is a symbol of what is possible with perseverance, intelligence, and heart.
From being a young carer and homeless teen to becoming one of the UK’s most powerful tech leaders, his story is a powerful blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs across Britain.
His estimated net worth of £40 million is a testament to hard work, but his impact stretches far beyond money.
Through his leadership, philanthropy, and advocacy, Dean Forbes is reshaping the face of British business.
FAQs About Dean Forbes
What was Dean Forbes’ first job?
He began his career working in a Motorola call centre in 1995 to help clear personal debt.
How did Dean Forbes become wealthy?
Forbes grew his wealth through executive roles, company acquisitions, equity stakes, and private investments.
Is Dean Forbes married?
Yes, he is married to Danielle Forbes. The couple has three children and co-founded a charity together.
What does the Forbes Family Group do?
FFG is a charitable foundation that supports underrepresented youth through funding, training, and mentorship.
Why was Dean Forbes named the most influential Black Briton?
His impact in tech and philanthropy, as well as his inspirational life story, earned him the top spot on the 2025 Powerlist.
Has Dean Forbes faced financial struggles?
Yes, he was once £88,000 in debt and homeless twice before rebuilding his life and career.
What industries has Dean Forbes worked in?
Primarily in software and tech, including HR platforms, enterprise solutions, and expense management systems.