W. Taylor Franklin, Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of the Franklin Group: Franklin Group is a leading multifamily development, investment, and management firm headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Under his strategic leadership, Franklin Group has experienced remarkable growth and achieved significant milestones. The company has expanded its operational footprint with offices in Virginia Beach and Washington D.C. and has cultivated strong strategic partnerships with major institutional owners, broadening its client base and influence. Notably, the Franklin Group’s real estate portfolio has consistently delivered year-over-year revenue and net operating income growth since 2012, demonstrating sustained financial success. The company has also made a significant impact on job creation, generating over 1,000 new jobs across 10 states and the District of Columbia. In terms of development, more than 10,000 multifamily units have been created in Virginia and North Carolina, encompassing award-winning conventional and affordable housing communities. Franklin Group has successfully secured over $1.6 billion in project financing and capitalization, enabling large-scale developments. The company has facilitated numerous successful public-private partnerships, allowing for the initiation and completion of complex projects. Under his leadership, Franklin Group has solidified its position as a leader in affordable housing management, ranking as the 12th largest company in the country, overseeing 37,000 units.

Beyond his professional achievements, Taylor is deeply involved in civic leadership within the Virginia Beach community and beyond. He serves as the Vice Chair of the Virginia Beach Development Authority Board and is a member of the Board of Directors for the Neptune Festival. He also holds the position of Chairman and President of the Board of Directors for the Chesapeake Bay Wine Classic and serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Norfolk Collegiate. His commitment to education is further exemplified by his role on the Board of Visitors at William & Mary. Taylor is a Tocqueville Society Member of the United Way of South Hampton Roads, demonstrating his philanthropic dedication. Additionally, he co-chaired the Hampton Roads Finance Committee for Governor Youngkin and served on Governor Glenn Youngkin’s Inaugural Committee. He is also a former member of the Board of Trustees for Virginia Wesleyan University. His dedication to economic development, education, and philanthropy highlights his commitment to the growth and well-being of the Hampton Roads region.

Taylor’s deep commitment to the Hampton Roads community is evidenced by his consistent recognition as a leader and philanthropist. A native of the region and a graduate of Virginia Wesleyan University, Franklin has prioritized giving back to the community that shaped him. In 2022, Taylor reigned as the youngest King Neptune in the 48-year history of Virginia Beach’s Neptune Festival. He has been honored with a spot on the prestigious Inside Business Power List for seven consecutive years, a testament to his significant influence and impact on the local business landscape. Furthermore, his dedication to philanthropy was recognized with the Outstanding Emerging Philanthropist award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals Hampton Roads, highlighting his exceptional contributions to charitable causes within the region. These accolades, combined with his extensive civic involvement, underscore Franklin’s unwavering commitment to the prosperity and well-being of the Hampton Roads community.