Philippe Dauman at a Glance
Philippe Dauman: Net Worth, Salary, Career, and Life
Philippe Dauman is a prominent figure in the media and business world. This article delves into his net worth, career, and personal life, providing a comprehensive overview of his journey from law to the highest echelons of corporate leadership.
What is Philippe Dauman’s Net Worth and Salary?
Philippe Dauman’s net worth is estimated to be $250 million, reflecting his successful career in the media and entertainment industry. His financial success is largely attributed to his long tenure at Viacom, where he held several key leadership positions.
As CEO of Viacom, Dauman’s salary was consistently among the highest in the corporate world. His compensation packages included substantial salaries, bonuses, and stock options.
- 2014: $44 million
- 2015: $55 million
- 2016: $88 million
These figures highlight the significant value placed on his leadership and strategic contributions to the company.
Early Life and Education
Philippe Dauman was born on March 1, 1954, in New York City. His upbringing was influenced by his father, Henri Dauman, a Holocaust survivor and renowned photographer for Life magazine. Henri’s work provided a unique perspective on world events. This upbringing likely instilled a global perspective in Philippe Dauman early in life.
Dauman’s pursuit of higher education began at Yale University, where he laid a foundation for his future academic endeavors. He then attended Columbia University Law School, earning his law degree in 1978. This legal background would prove invaluable in navigating the complex world of corporate law and mergers and acquisitions.

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Viacom: The Rise to Leadership
Dauman’s career trajectory took a significant turn when he became involved with the media conglomerate Viacom. After graduating from law school, he initially worked at the law firm Shearman & Sterling, including a two-year stint in the Paris office. Upon his return to New York, his association with Stephen Volk, a partner at Shearman & Sterling, led him to Sumner Redstone, a prominent businessman. Dauman’s involvement with Redstone proved pivotal in his career, leading to his advisory role in Redstone’s successful takeover of Viacom in 1987. He subsequently secured a position on Viacom’s board of directors.
Dauman’s ascent within Viacom was steady. By the early 1990s, he had become senior vice president and general counsel, a role he held until 1998. From 1994 to 2000, he also served as executive vice president, overseeing strategic transactions, human resources, administration, and Viacom’s subsidiaries. His responsibilities expanded in the lead up to, and during, the CBS Corporation merger.
In 2000, Viacom acquired CBS Corporation in a $35.9 billion deal, solidifying Viacom’s position as a media powerhouse. After years of expansion, Viacom was split into two companies at the end of 2005. Both companies remained under the control of Sumner Redstone’s National Amusements. Dauman was appointed president, CEO, and chairman of the second iteration of Viacom from 2006 to 2016. During his tenure, the company pursued several acquisitions, including Atom Entertainment, Harmonix, and Channel 5 in the UK.
Additionally, Dauman and Viacom collaborated with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation on the Get Schooled education initiative. Dauman stepped down from his leadership positions in 2016 and was succeeded by Bob Bakish.

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Other Positions and Affiliations
Beyond his leadership at Viacom, Philippe Dauman has held various positions and affiliations that showcase his influence in diverse sectors. He served as a director at the French industrial company Lafarge. Dauman was also a board member of the KIPP Foundation, demonstrating his commitment to educational causes. His involvement extended to the National Cable & Telecommunications Association, where he sat on the executive committee. Additionally, he held positions on the boards of trustees for the Paley Center for Media and Northwell Health, reflecting his engagement in the arts, media, and healthcare.
Furthermore, Dauman is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, indicating his ties to the film industry. He also serves as the president and treasurer of his Philippe and Deborah Dauman Family Foundation, which supports initiatives focused on health and education, aligning with his philanthropic endeavors.
Personal Life and Real Estate
Philippe Dauman’s personal life includes his marriage to Deborah Ross in 1977. Together, they have two children, Philippe Jr. and Alexandre.
The Daumans have made significant real estate investments over the years, reflecting their financial success and lifestyle. In 1988, they purchased a home in East Hampton for $1 million, which has since appreciated to an estimated value of $5-$6 million. In June 2014, they acquired a home in Palm Beach, Florida, for $23 million, with the property’s current estimated value at $65 million. These real estate holdings provide insight into their wealth and lifestyle.
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