Real Estate 2025: FRANKLIN, W. TAYLOR

Franklin became CEO in 2023, succeeding his father, Wendell, who is now chairman of the real estate development, management and investment firm. Previously chief operating officer, Franklin oversees approximately 1,050 employees, as well as a portfolio of 200 properties in 10 states and Washington, D.C.

In 2013, Franklin, his father, Tom Johnston and Steve Cooper started The Franklin Johnston Group after leaving S.L. Nusbaum Realty. Johnston stepped down from the firm last year, and the two Franklins remain managing partners of the company, now the Franklin Group.

Over the past decade, the business has developed more than 10,000 new multifamily residences across Virginia and North Carolina, totaling more than $1.6 billion in financed projects.
Construction is underway on The Canopy, the company’s $80 million mixed-use development in Virginia Beach that will have 132 apartments as well as retail and office space. The Franklin Group plans to relocate its headquarters to the new building once complete.

Franklin serves on the William & Mary Board of Visitors, and he is chairman of the Chesapeake Bay Wine Classic Foundation board, as well as the 2022 King Neptune for Virginia Beach’s Neptune Festival.

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