Early Life
Margaretta Johnson was born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1942. She is the daughter of Anne Cox Chambers, a renowned businesswoman, philanthropist, and diplomat, and Louis G. Johnson. Her maternal grandfather was James M. Cox, a prominent newspaper publisher and politician, who founded what would become Cox Enterprises in 1898. Taylor received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Finch College.
Rise to Success
Margaretta Taylor inherited an estimated 17% stake in Cox Enterprises from her mother, Anne Cox Chambers, following her mother’s redistribution of her 49% stake among her three children in 2015. Cox Enterprises, a privately held conglomerate, is a major player in the media and automotive industries.
Key Business Strategies
Though Taylor has never held an active role in the day-to-day operations or strategic decisions of Cox Enterprises, the company's success is, in part, due to the family's influence. Her son, Alexander C. Taylor, is the current CEO and Chairman of Cox Enterprises. The company's revenue in 2025 was $23.1 billion.
Philanthropy
Margaretta Taylor is known for her philanthropic efforts, particularly in conservation and education. She has made substantial donations to various organizations, including a $5 million gift to the Wildlife Conservation Society's Bronx Zoo in 2010. She is also a supporter of organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, American Rivers, and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.