Charles Bartlett Johnson is an American billionaire businessman, the former CEO of Franklin Templeton Investments, and the majority owner of the San Francisco Giants (MLB). Born in 1933, his family's wealth originated with his father, Rupert Harris Johnson Sr., who founded the mutual fund company Franklin Resources in 1947. Charles's childhood was marked by his parents' divorce, leaving him to live with his mother and four siblings.

Johnson attended Yale College, graduating in 1954. His time at Yale was defined by discipline and hard work: he was a scholarship student who played offensive guard for the football team and worked by waiting tables in the dining hall. An ROTC cadet, he later served as a lieutenant in the United States Army, stationed in Germany. This foundation of military discipline, competitive sports, and financial rigor prepared him for his decades-long career in asset management.

Charles B. Johnson's career is one of extraordinary longevity and financial acumen. He joined his family's mutual fund company, Franklin Resources, shortly after his military service, and at the age of 24 in 1957, he became the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He led the company for an incredible 56 years.

Under his leadership, Franklin Resources grew exponentially. He took the company public in 1971 and, in a landmark transaction, orchestrated the acquisition of the global asset manager Templeton, Galbraith & Hansberger Ltd. in 1992 for $913 million, creating the financial powerhouse known as Franklin Templeton Investments. He stepped down as Chairman in 2013, succeeded by his son, Greg Johnson. Outside of finance, Johnson became the largest shareholder of the San Francisco Giants, purchasing his stake in 1992, showcasing his interest in combining high finance with professional sports ownership.

Charles B. Johnson is a major, impactful philanthropist, focusing heavily on his alma mater, Yale University, and conservative policy. His giving is monumental and highly structural.

• Yale University: His $250 million gift in 2013 was the largest in the university's history, funding the construction of new residential colleges (one of which was named Benjamin Franklin College). He has also funded the Johnson Center for the Study of American Diplomacy.
• San Francisco Giants: His ownership ensures the stability of the franchise and its contributions to the community.
• Political Advocacy: His substantial financial support for Republican candidates and conservative think tanks positions him as a major force in U.S. political and economic policy.

Charles B. Johnson maintains the professional, old-money style of a highly successful financier. His attire is consistently formal and refined, favoring tailored suits and a classic aesthetic. His public persona reflects his position as a disciplined leader who successfully managed a global financial firm for over five decades.

Residing in Palm Beach, Florida, his luxury is the immense security of his multi-billion dollar fortune, which affords him the autonomy to pursue his passions for sports and high-impact political and educational philanthropy. His life is defined by his commitment to financial services and his dedication to his alma mater, Yale.