Early Life and Family
Robert Wood Johnson IV, known as Woody Johnson, was born on April 12, 1947, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He is a member of the Johnson & Johnson family, the great-grandson of Robert Wood Johnson I, who co-founded the prominent pharmaceutical company. Johnson's upbringing instilled in him the values of leadership, philanthropy, and business acumen, shaping his future endeavors.
Rise to Success
Johnson's career has been marked by his diverse interests and achievements. He is the Chairman and CEO of The Johnson Company, Inc., a private investment firm. His most notable venture is his ownership of the New York Jets, which he purchased in 2000. This acquisition marked a significant step in his career, making him a prominent figure in the sports industry. Johnson's time as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom, from 2017 to 2021, further broadened his experience and influence.
Key Business Strategies
Under Johnson's leadership, the New York Jets have focused on building a culture of success. This involved acquiring top talent, creating a supportive environment for fans, and establishing a state-of-the-art training facility and headquarters. Johnson has consistently invested in improving the team's performance and enhancing the fan experience. He also moved the Jets to the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center, a world-class facility, to improve player performance.
Philanthropy
Woody Johnson is known for his charitable contributions, especially in healthcare. Johnson founded the Alliance for Lupus Research (now the Lupus Research Alliance) and supports various initiatives focused on medical research and humanitarian aid. In 2022, the Johnson family traveled to Poland to meet with Ukrainian refugees, demonstrating their commitment to global issues and aid efforts.