Srettha Thavisin co-founded the real estate developer Sansiri in 1988, a commercial venture that preceded his entry into national government. His career shifted from business leadership to political administration, culminating in his service as the 30th Prime Minister of Thailand from 2023 until his court-ordered removal from office the following year.
Background and Education
Born in 1962 in the Phra Nakhon Province of Bangkok, Thailand, Srettha Thavisin completed his early education at the Prasarnmit Demonstration School at Srinakharinwirot University. He moved to the United States for further studies, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Massachusetts and a Master of Business Administration from Claremont Graduate University.
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Following graduation in 1986, Srettha worked for four years as an assistant product manager at Procter & Gamble. He transitioned into the property sector by launching Sansiri in 1988. Over his tenure as a real estate executive, he oversaw the construction of more than 400 residential projects. In 2020, he participated in a significant land purchase near Lumphini Park in Bangkok and acquired a 15% stake in XSpring Capital Public Company Limited. To comply with electoral regulations regarding official assets, he transferred his company shares to his daughter, Chanada Thavisin, in March 2023.
Political Tenure
Srettha entered electoral politics as a member of the Pheu Thai Party. During the 2023 Thai general election, he served as one of the party's three prime ministerial candidates. Upon assuming the premiership in 2023, he also served as the Minister of Finance. His administration focused on economic stimulus through tourism and the promotion of Thai soft power. His political career ended in August 2024, when the courts dismissed him from office following the appointment of Pichit Chuenban to his cabinet.
Fast facts
- Born: 1962, Phra Nakhon Province, Thailand
- Education: University of Massachusetts, Claremont Graduate University
- Primary Occupation: Businessperson, Politician
- Political Party: Pheu Thai Party
- Prime Minister of Thailand: 2023–2024
- Minister of Finance: 2023–2024
- Awards: Grand Cordon of the Order of the Crown of Thailand (2024)
- Awards: Grand Cordon of the Order of the White Elephant (2024)
Questions readers ask
Why was Srettha Thavisin removed from office?
The Thai courts dismissed him in August 2024 due to his appointment of Pichit Chuenban to his cabinet.
What was his primary business background?
He co-founded the real estate company Sansiri in 1988, which became one of Thailand's leading residential developers.
Achievements
- Prime Minister of Thailand (2023–2024)
- Minister of Finance of Thailand (2023–2024)
- Grand Cordon of the Order of the White Elephant — 2024
- Grand Cordon of the Order of the Crown of Thailand — 2024
- Educated at Claremont Graduate University and University of Massachusetts
