Barry Sherman Age, Nationality, Alma Mata

Bernard Charles “Barry” Sherman, CM, left an indelible mark on the Canadian business landscape as a distinguished businessman, philanthropist, and the visionary behind Apotex Inc. With an illustrious career that spanned several decades, Sherman’s journey from his early days in the pharmaceutical industry to becoming a billionaire entrepreneur is a compelling tale of resilience and innovation.

Early Life and Education:

Born into a Jewish family in Toronto on February 25, 1942, Barry Sherman’s path to success began with a strong academic foundation. Excelling in physics at Forest Hill Collegiate Institute, he entered the University of Toronto’s engineering science program at the age of 16, earning the highest honors and the Governor General’s Award for his thesis. Sherman’s commitment to excellence was evident from a young age.

Barry Sherman
Image Credit: Dick Loek *p66 Carolyn Abbass/ K|
Credit: Toronto Star via Getty Images

Sherman’s entry into the pharmaceutical world was influenced by his uncle, Louis Lloyd Winter, whose company, Empire Laboratories, became his first exposure to the industry. Graduating from the University of Toronto in 1964, Sherman furthered his education at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he earned a Ph.D. in astrophysics in 1967.

Empire Laboratories and Apotex:

In 1967, Sherman acquired Empire Laboratories, setting the stage for his impactful career in pharmaceuticals. Under his leadership, Empire secured rights to manufacture key medications, solidifying its position in the industry. However, Sherman’s ambitious plans led to the voiding of an agreement with the Winter estate in 1969, paving the way for the creation of Apotex in 1974.

Apotex quickly became Canada’s largest domestic pharmaceutical manufacturer, boasting over 10,000 employees and distributing products to more than 115 countries. Sherman’s strategic investments, including acquiring a third of Barr Laboratories, positioned Apotex as a major player in the generic drug market.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

Beyond pharmaceuticals, Sherman ventured into various business domains. His collaboration with Frank D’Angelo resulted in ventures such as the Cheetah Power Surge energy drink and Steelback Brewery. Despite facing setbacks, Sherman’s willingness to explore diverse industries showcased his entrepreneurial spirit.

Sherman’s philanthropic efforts extended beyond his business endeavors. His wife, Honey Sherman, rose to prominence in Canadian philanthropy, serving on the boards of several charities, highlighting the couple’s commitment to giving back to the community.

Tragic End and Ongoing Investigation:

The legacy of Barry Sherman took a tragic turn when he and his wife were found dead in their home on December 13, 2017. Initially considered a murder-suicide by investigators, the conclusion faced scrutiny in the media. As of May 2022, the Toronto Police Service continues to actively investigate the case, with an “idea of what happened.”