As of 2025, Scott D. Farmer has an estimated net worth of $341 million, largely built through decades of executive leadership and insider shareholdings in Cintas Corporation, a Fortune 500 company that specializes in corporate uniforms and workplace services. Farmer’s story isn’t just one of inherited success—it’s about strategic decision-making, sustained company growth, and a deep understanding of the American industrial services landscape.
Who Is Scott D. Farmer?
Born into the legacy of Cintas, Scott D. Farmer is the son of Richard T. Farmer, who founded the company and transformed it into a billion-dollar brand. Scott carried that legacy forward, becoming one of the most influential executives in the business services industry. While his exact age is not publicly stated, industry analysts estimate he is in his early 60s as of 2025.
Farmer served as CEO of Cintas Corporation from 2003 to 2021 and remains a key figure as Chairman Emeritus. Under his leadership, Cintas evolved into a diversified powerhouse offering everything from uniforms and cleaning products to fire protection services. His tenure was marked by aggressive expansion, acquisitions, and a focus on delivering consistent shareholder returns.
Breaking Down the $341 Million Net Worth
Scott D. Farmer’s $341 million net worth stems almost entirely from his stake in Cintas Corp (NASDAQ: CTAS). As a major shareholder and former CEO, Farmer has consistently bought and sold shares of the company over the past two decades. His SEC CIK number—0001189287—is tied to numerous insider trade filings.
Let’s look at some of his most notable trading activity:
- Most Active Buying Year: In 2017, Farmer spent $44.6 million to acquire 335,277 shares, the largest single-year acquisition of his career in terms of total value.
- Most Profitable Selling Year: In 2020, he sold 44,309 shares for a staggering $13.7 million, marking his most lucrative divestment year.
- Trading Patterns: His trading activity peaks in June, which has historically been the most active month for both acquiring and selling Cintas stock.
- Active Years: 2003 and 2012 stand out—2003 saw 9 separate purchases, while 2012 was his most frequent year for sales with 7 total transactions.
Farmer’s strategic approach to insider trading reveals more than just wealth accumulation. It demonstrates a deep confidence in the company’s trajectory and his ability to time the market effectively based on internal insights and long-term vision.
Leadership at Cintas: A Strategic Legacy
When Scott took over the CEO role in 2003, Cintas was already a successful enterprise. But under his watch, the company significantly expanded its portfolio beyond uniforms. He oversaw the acquisitions of multiple service firms and streamlined operations to meet the demands of a changing market.
By the time he stepped down in 2021, Cintas’ market capitalization had more than quadrupled from the early 2000s. His focus on scalable services, high client retention, and innovation in safety and hygiene offerings helped position the company as an essential partner for thousands of businesses across North America.
Farmer was also known for his quiet but confident management style. While not often in the public eye, those who worked with him describe him as pragmatic, data-driven, and extremely focused on corporate performance. He avoided the spotlight, preferring results to speak for themselves.
Family, Background, and Philanthropy
Scott D. Farmer is a family man rooted in Midwestern values. His father, Richard Farmer, remains a revered figure in business and philanthropy, especially in Ohio, where Cintas is headquartered. The family has contributed to educational causes and healthcare initiatives, including donations to the University of Miami and other regional institutions.
While Scott has largely kept his personal life private, it’s known that he has continued the family tradition of philanthropy, though not at the scale or publicity level of some modern billionaires. His wealth enables him to support various non-profits, particularly in education, community development, and healthcare.
Retirement and Board Involvement
Since stepping down as CEO, Scott D. Farmer has remained active as Chairman Emeritus, a role that allows him to provide guidance without day-to-day involvement. He continues to hold significant equity in Cintas, aligning his personal financial interests with the company’s future.
His boardroom experience and industry insights make him a valuable asset for both public and private companies seeking to navigate the industrial services sector. Though there have been rumors of interest from private equity firms and advisory boards, Farmer has yet to take on any new high-profile roles, choosing instead to focus on family, philanthropy, and select consulting opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Quiet Billionaire, Loud Impact
In the world of American business, Scott D. Farmer stands out as a figure who built and preserved immense wealth without courting celebrity status. His calculated moves in insider trading, disciplined leadership at Cintas, and strong family legacy have earned him a respected place in corporate history.
With a net worth of $341 million in 2025, Farmer exemplifies what it means to be a strategic executive—balancing long-term shareholder value, personal wealth growth, and company loyalty over decades. His story isn’t just about big numbers; it’s about stewardship, consistency, and excellence in leadership.
