Early Life
James Cox Kennedy was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, on November 29, 1947. He is the son of Barbara Cox Anthony and Stanley C. Kennedy Jr., and the grandson of former Ohio governor and media magnate James M. Cox.
Rise to Success
Kennedy's career began in 1972 when he joined Cox Enterprises, holding various positions within the media industry. He started in Cox Newspapers, and later became president of Grand Junction Newspapers, Inc., and publisher of the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel. In 1986, he was named executive vice president of Cox Enterprises. He inherited a 25% stake in Cox Enterprises after his mother's death in 2007 and currently serves as chairman of the company. Kennedy has made significant contributions to the media industry and philanthropy.
Key Business Strategies
Under his leadership, Cox Enterprises focused on innovation and strategic changes, including asset diversification, business expansion through cable television and broadband Internet services, and launching the AutoTrader platform. A key objective was to enhance the company's competitiveness and profitability, adapting to the digital age. Jim was one of the first in the industry to recognize the potential of the internet and digital technologies, and he adapted Cox Enterprises' processes to the realities of digitalization.
Philanthropy
Kennedy is a noted philanthropist, contributing significantly to education, healthcare, and sustainability initiatives. He has supported early childhood education, educational institutions, and conservation organizations. He has also been involved in educational and community outreach initiatives. Kennedy and his wife, Sarah, were recognized as Philanthropists of the Year by the Greater Atlanta Chapter of the Association for Fundraising Professionals in 2003. He has also been a major supporter of the Atlanta BeltLine and Ducks Unlimited.