Early Career:
Donald Bren began his career as a carpenter’s assistant while he was working in his father’s tenements. He later went to on to attend the University of Washington, after acquiring a skiing scholarship. After going on to complete a 3-year stint with the Marines, he purchased the Irvine Company, which had been engaged in the ranching business for 150 years. Today, the Irvine Company is a privately held concern, and Donald Bren owns the entire company. Over the years, this corporation has donated almost 60,000 acres of property in Orange County for conservation purposes.
Business:
Donald Bren and the Irvine Company are deeply invested in the California property market. Donald Bren has been involved in the business for half a century as the quintessential builder, planner and strategist. The company business spans multiple corporations, office buildings, retail centers, apartments, hotels, marinas, golf courses and so forth. Philanthropy is a core component of the guiding principles of the Irvine Company. Business operations in Orange County, San Diego, Silicon Valley and Los Angeles are abundant. The company’s business operations are headquartered in Newport Beach. Examples of Irvine Company business properties include Irvine Company Apartments, Office Properties, Pelican Hill, Great Slips, Shop Fashion Island, Shop Irvine Company, and scores of others.
Special Projects:
Donald Bren and the Irvine Company are deeply engaged in community development, philanthropy and charitable giving. Donald Bren and his business partners are highly regarded for philanthropic initiatives such as research, environmental stewardship and education. Land conservation is a big deal for the firm, and 57,000 acres of open space has been committed to Parklands and open space. It is also one of the largest such areas in the US, bringing a huge pristine wilderness within 30 minutes reach of 3 million people. Various educational initiatives have also been established such as the Donald Bren Foundation, and massive support of the University of California for various programs including medicine, computer science, arts, business environmental science and others. In terms of research facilities, the Irvine Company supports the Burnham Institute for medical research and ongoing research in medical and computer-related spheres.
