D avid Kaplan is an American billionaire private equity investor and a co-founder of Ares Management Corporation, a leading global alternative investment manager. He began his career at Apollo Global Management before leaving in 1997 with Tony Ressler and other partners to establish Ares. The firm initially focused on credit markets and has since grown into a massive, diversified platform.

Kaplan has been a key leader in building Ares's private equity group into a major global force, serving as its co-chairman. He has overseen numerous successful leveraged buyouts across a wide range of industries. In addition to his role in finance, Kaplan is a prominent investor in professional sports. He is a co-owner of the Welsh soccer team Swansea City A.F.C. and the Major League Soccer team D.C. United. His career exemplifies the modern private equity titan with significant influence in both finance and sports.