Terry Semel
Terry Semel
Full Name and Common Aliases
Terry Semel is an American businessman and former president of Yahoo!.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on January 12, 1943, in New York City.
Nationality and Profession(s)
American, Entrepreneur, Business Executive, Investor.
Early Life and Background
Semel grew up in a Jewish family in Queens, New York. His father was a businessman who owned several small companies. This exposure to the world of business at an early age likely influenced Semel's future career choices. After graduating from high school, he attended Brandeis University, where he earned his undergraduate degree in economics.
Major Accomplishments
Semel's most notable accomplishment is his tenure as president and CEO of Yahoo!, a leading internet services company. During his leadership (2001-2007), the company expanded its offerings and increased revenue. He was instrumental in acquiring several key companies, including HotJobs and Kelkoo. Semel also played a significant role in shaping Yahoo!'s strategy to compete with Google.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Semel's notable works include:
He led the turnaround of Warner Bros. from 1997-2001, transforming it into one of the most profitable studios in Hollywood.
Semel has invested in and served on the boards of various companies, including Facebook, YouTube, and Netflix.
As an investor, he co-founded the private equity firm, Windsor Media.
Impact and Legacy
Terry Semel's impact on the tech industry is undeniable. As a leader at Yahoo!, he navigated the company through its most challenging period, setting it up for future growth. His ability to adapt and innovate helped position Yahoo! as a major player in the internet services market. Furthermore, his investments and involvement with various companies have contributed significantly to their success.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Semel is widely quoted and remembered due to his:
- Innovative Approach: He was at the forefront of adapting traditional industries to the digital landscape.
- Leadership Experience: His tenure as president and CEO of Yahoo! showcases his ability to navigate complex business environments.
- Entrepreneurial Spirit: Semel's willingness to take calculated risks has led to notable successes.
Semel's legacy extends beyond his professional achievements, as he continues to be a respected voice in the tech industry. His experiences and insights provide valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and executives alike.
Quotes by Terry Semel
I don't think that Yahoo or any other Internet company should try to become a television network. We will be nowhere if we have to create our own content.
I believe online advertising will increase in importance and ultimately will get a larger share of company's overall marketing budgets, ... We see this time as our opportunity to regroup, rebuild and be stronger than ever for when ad spending picks up again around the middle of 2002.
By buying out Softbank... our strategic flexibility to take advantage of international growth opportunities in Korea and Europe will be enhanced, and this new structure should lead to a more efficient, longer-term operating and tax model.
By buying out Softbank's JV (joint venture) interests, our strategic flexibility to take advantage of international growth opportunities in Korea and Europe will be enhanced, and this new structure should lead to a more efficient, longer-term operating and tax model.
it's been tough; it's difficult for all businesses and all industries. We keep hoping and thinking that maybe by the second half of next year we will see a movement upward.
It's a great opportunity for us. It will allow us to do a better job every time we do a search.
It's a 21st-century media company. The difference between the more traditional media companies and companies like Yahoo is all about technology, and the two - technology and media - totally marry each other.