Hospitality | Tourism 2023: JIM McGLOTHLIN

McGlothlin has always had an innate sense for a good business opportunity. He built a fortune from coal mines and then pivoted to hospitality as the coal business began to recede.

A William & Mary alumnus, McGlothlin has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a law degree. He started out as a lawyer in Grundy, practicing with two cousins before co-founding United Coal Co. in 1970, going on to acquire dozens of smaller coal companies and mines in Appalachia. United Coal grew into a billion-dollar business by the time it was sold in 2009 to a Ukrainian billionaire’s company.

McGlothlin continued as chairman, CEO and sole owner of his remaining business entity, The United Co., which diversified into a hospitality and wealth management company, with activities including real estate development and coal, oil and gas exploration services and holdings including golf courses, RV parks and a stake in the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol.

Virginia Business’ 2022 Person of the Year, McGlothlin successfully led the effort to legalize casinos in Virginia. He stepped down as United’s CEO in 2022, remaining chairman, and is a significant art collector and philanthropist.