James 'Jim' Cox Kennedy is an American media executive, billionaire Chairman of Cox Enterprises, a massive privately held conglomerate spanning cable (Cox Communications), automotive services (Cox Automotive), and media (newspapers and broadcasting). His wealth is generational, tied to the empire founded by his grandfather, James M. Cox (former Governor of Ohio), in 1898.

Kennedy received a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Denver in 1970. His career began with hands-on work in the family business in 1972, holding roles from production assistant and reporter to advertising salesman. He inherited a 25 percent stake in Cox Enterprises in 2007 after his mother's death.

• Cox Enterprises (Chairman): The core private asset, a massive conglomerate spanning cable (Cox Communications), automotive services, and media.
• Family Governance: He inherited a 25 percent stake and serves as Chairman of the James M. Cox Foundation.
• Philanthropic Focus: He is dedicated to conservation, educational success for vulnerable children, and Alzheimer's disease/cancer research.
• Early Career: He was known as the 'New Kid' while working the back shop and newsroom floor at Grand Junction Daily Sentinel.

Jim Kennedy's strategic leadership transformed Cox Enterprises, growing its annual revenues from $1.88 billion to $20 billion during his tenure as CEO (appointed in 1988) and Chairman. He successfully diversified the company, moving it beyond traditional newspapers into cable (Cox Communications) and automotive services (Cox Automotive).

His structural contribution is immense: he successfully translated sustainable best practices from his personal life to the company's business operations. He is a major conservationist, serving as Chairman of the Colorado Division of Wildlife Commission and establishing the James C. Kennedy Endowed Chair in Waterfowl and Wetlands Conservation at Mississippi State University. His wealth is secured by the colossal, long-term, stable profitability of the privately held media and technology conglomerate.

Jim Kennedy is a dedicated philanthropist and environmental advocate. His structural social impact is tied to the Cox Enterprises' role as a major employer and foundational supplier of telecom, media, and automotive services. His conservation work is massive, including a $2 million gift to establish the James C. Kennedy Endowed Chair in Waterfowl and Wetlands Conservation.

His personal philanthropy includes over $60 million to Emory University for Alzheimer's disease, cancer research, and patient-centered care models, and $38 million to the PATH Foundation for greenway trails in Atlanta.

Jim Kennedy maintains the professional, composed style of a media executive. His attire is consistently formal and high-quality, favoring tailored suits. His aesthetic reflects stability and his commitment to sustainability and civic engagement.

Residing in Atlanta, Georgia, his luxury is the immense security and financial reward derived from his multi-billion dollar fortune. His life is dedicated to corporate governance, conservation, and the long-term stewardship of the Cox empire.