Henry Maksoud (8 March 1929 – 17 April 2014) was a Brazilian engineer, entrepreneur and publisher. Born in Aquidauana in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, he trained as an engineer and completed graduate studies in the United States, earning a Master of Science in fluid mechanics from the University of Iowa while living and studying in the United States. Over several decades he combined technical training with business ventures in hospitality and media and remained active in professional engineering circles.

Education and early life

Maksoud's formative years in Brazil and his technical education abroad shaped a career that bridged engineering practice and organizational leadership. His graduate work in fluid mechanics provided him with applied scientific training and problem‑solving skills that he later applied to industrial and commercial projects. He maintained ties to academic and professional networks and used his background to inform management decisions in his enterprises.

Engineering career and professional involvement

In addition to his private ventures, Maksoud engaged with the engineering profession through institutional leadership. He served as Chairman of the Engineering Institute of São Paulo (Instituto de Engenharia de São Paulo) from 1967 to 1968, a role in which he participated in discussions about professional standards, education and the public role of engineering. His activities reflected a common mid‑20th century pattern of engineers moving into executive and civic roles.

Hospitality and the Maksoud Plaza

One of Maksoud's best known enterprises was the five‑star Maksoud Plaza hotel in São Paulo. Under his ownership the hotel became identified with upscale accommodation and with meetings, conferences and events related to business and culture. The Maksoud Plaza is often cited as part of São Paulo's modern commercial hospitality infrastructure and represents the intersection of real estate development, service management and urban economic life.

Publishing and public voice

Maksoud also invested in publishing, owning the magazine Visão. Through that medium he participated in public conversation and contributed to the information landscape of his time. His involvement in media complemented his other business activities and provided a platform for opinion and cultural engagement.

Death and legacy

Henry Maksoud died in São Paulo on 17 April 2014 after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 85. He is remembered as an example of an engineer who broadened his professional scope into entrepreneurship, hospitality and publishing. The enterprises he led, especially the Maksoud Plaza and his publishing interests, remained part of São Paulo's commercial and cultural fabric after his death.

Selected positions

  • Owner, Maksoud Plaza (São Paulo)
  • Owner, magazine Visão
  • Chairman, Engineering Institute of São Paulo (1967–1968)