Woody Johnson, American businessman and philanthropist

Robert Wood Johnson IV, born on April 12, 1947, is a prominent American businessman and a distinguished figure with a rich lineage. He is widely recognized not only for his significant entrepreneurial ventures but also for his service as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom from 2017 to 2021. His heritage ties him directly to one of America's most enduring corporate success stories, as he is a great-grandson of Robert Wood Johnson I, the visionary co-founder of the global pharmaceutical and consumer goods giant, Johnson & Johnson, inheriting a substantial portion of that immense fortune.

A Legacy of Business and Philanthropy

As a billionaire heir, Johnson IV carries forward a name synonymous with innovation and global reach in healthcare. The Johnson & Johnson company, established in 1886, grew into a multinational conglomerate, shaping medical and consumer product landscapes worldwide, and his family's stewardship has left an indelible mark on American industry. Beyond his ancestral ties, Johnson has carved out his own path in the business world, notably through his ventures in professional sports.

Stepping onto the Political Stage: Ambassadorship to the UK

A long-standing and significant donor to the Republican Party, Johnson actively supported Donald Trump's presidential campaigns. His commitment to the party and his political engagement culminated in his appointment by President Trump as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom, a prestigious diplomatic post often referred to as the Ambassador to the Court of St. James's. Serving from 2017 to 2021, Johnson's tenure coincided with a particularly dynamic period in transatlantic relations and global affairs, requiring adept diplomatic navigation.

Key Milestones During his Tenure

During Ambassador Johnson's four years in London, two pivotal events significantly reshaped the political and physical landscape of the US-UK relationship. Firstly, Britain's historic decision to leave the European Union, commonly known as Brexit, fully materialized. This complex and unprecedented geopolitical shift presented substantial challenges and opportunities for both nations, requiring careful attention from the US embassy to maintain and adapt bilateral ties. Secondly, the United States embassy in London underwent a significant relocation. Moving from its long-standing Mayfair address to a striking new, purpose-built facility in Nine Elms, this move symbolized a modern chapter in US diplomacy within the UK, and Johnson oversaw this major logistical and symbolic transition.

The New York Jets: A Passion for Football

Beyond his political and family legacies, Robert Wood Johnson IV is perhaps most widely recognized by many Americans as the principal owner of the New York Jets, a franchise in the National Football League (NFL). His passion for the sport led him to purchase the team in 2000, taking the helm of one of the league's storied franchises. While he stepped away from day-to-day operations during his ambassadorship, he remains the co-owner of the Jets, sharing ownership responsibilities with his brother, Christopher Johnson, who serves as the team's vice-chairman. This enduring involvement highlights a deep personal connection to professional sports and the local community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Robert Wood Johnson IV?
Robert Wood Johnson IV is an American businessman, a billionaire heir to the Johnson & Johnson pharmaceutical fortune, and served as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom from 2017 to 2021.
What is his connection to Johnson & Johnson?
He is the great-grandson of Robert Wood Johnson I, one of the co-founders of the multinational healthcare company Johnson & Johnson, and is an heir to its substantial fortune.
When was he US Ambassador to the UK?
He served as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom from 2017 to 2021, appointed by President Donald Trump.
What significant events happened during his ambassadorship?
During his tenure, Britain's exit from the European Union (Brexit) was finalized, and the United States embassy in London relocated to a new facility in Nine Elms.
Does he still own the New York Jets?
Yes, Robert Wood Johnson IV remains the co-owner of the New York Jets NFL franchise, alongside his brother Christopher Johnson, who is the team's vice-chairman.