R on Burkle is a self-made American billionaire who is a prominent private equity investor. He is the co-founder and managing partner of The Yucaipa Companies, a Los Angeles-based private equity firm. The son of a grocery store manager, he started his career working in his father's store. He made his initial fortune by specializing in leveraged buyouts of supermarket chains, such as Fred Meyer and Ralphs, which he later sold for a massive profit. He has since diversified his investments into a wide range of industries, including logistics, hospitality, and entertainment.

Burkle is also known for his high-profile friendships with major political figures, particularly former President Bill Clinton, and with a host of celebrities. He is a major donor to the Democratic party. He is also a co-owner of the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League (NHL). He is known for his savvy and often contrarian investment style and for his deep expertise in the retail and logistics industries. He is also the owner of the iconic Greenacres estate in Beverly Hills.