Episode 94. John Y. Brown Jr. – 1979-1983 Governor of Kentucky & Kentucky Fried Chicken Entrepreneur (1933-2022)

John Y. Brown, Jr. credits his father as the prime motivator and confidence-builder, driving his later successes.

John began working at age 16 selling Electrolux vacuum cleaners and encyclopedias door to door. He then attended the University of Kentucky, where he earned a Juris Doctor.

In 1962, he and his partner purchased Kentucky Fried Chicken from its founder, Colonel Sanders, for $2 million. In 1971, after building 3,500 KFCs worldwide and making Colonel Sanders one of the world’s most recognized brands, Brown sold KFC for $285 million. After 1971, he became president of the American Basketball Association, created 40 small, fast-food outlets named Ollie’s Trolley, and purchased three professional basketball teams: the Kentucky Colonels, the Buffalo Braves, and the Boston Celtics.

In 1978, he built the Pamela Brown Auditorium in Louisville’s Actors Theatre and contributed a $1 million matching gift to make the downtown YMCA.

In 1979, John was elected as Kentucky’s 55th governor. After his run with politics, John continued pursuing many new restaurant concepts. He later ran for several public offices, created several new companies, and contributed to building the Muhammad Ali Center.

In 2009, Harvard Business School named John one of the Great American Business Leaders of the 20th Century.

John Y. Brown, Jr. (1933–2022) was an influential American businessman and politician best known for his tenure as the Kentucky Governor and successful fast food industry ventures. Here is an in-depth look at his life and career:

Early Life and Education

John Young Brown, Jr. was born in Lexington, Kentucky on December 28, 1933. He was the son of politician John Y. Brown, Sr., a prominent Kentucky politician who served as a U.S. Congressman. Brown attended Lafayette High School and later enrolled at the University of Kentucky, earning his bachelor’s degree and law degree.

Business Career

Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)

Brown is perhaps most famous for transforming Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) into a global brand. In 1964, he purchased KFC from its founder, Colonel Harland Sanders, for $2 million. Under Brown’s leadership, KFC proliferated, expanding its franchise operations and becoming one of the largest fast-food chains in the world. His innovative franchising strategies and aggressive marketing significantly increased the company’s profile and profitability.

Other Business Ventures

After selling KFC in 1971, Brown continued his entrepreneurial activities. He co-founded other successful ventures, including Lum’s restaurant chain, and acquired interests in other businesses, such as the Boston Celtics. His business acumen and ability to turn companies around earned him a reputation as a savvy and effective businessman.

Political Career

Governor of Kentucky

In 1979, John Y. Brown, Jr. was elected the 55th Governor of Kentucky as a Democrat, serving from 1979 to 1983. His campaign focused on his business success and promised to bring a business-oriented approach to state government.

During his tenure, Brown emphasized economic development and sought to run the state government more efficiently, akin to a business. He aimed to reduce state spending and improve the management of state resources. One of his notable achievements was the modernization of the state park system and improvements in the state’s infrastructure.

Despite his business success, Brown faced challenges in the political arena. His administration dealt with budget deficits, and some of his cost-cutting measures were controversial. However, his outsider status and business credentials helped him maintain a degree of popularity.

Later Life and Legacy

After serving as governor, Brown returned to the private sector, continuing his involvement in various business ventures. He remained a notable figure in Kentucky politics and business circles, often called upon for his insights and advice.

John Y. Brown, Jr.’s legacy is multifaceted. He is remembered for his significant contributions to the fast-food industry, particularly his role in making KFC a global brand. His governorship of Kentucky highlighted his belief in applying business principles to government operations, a concept that influenced later political figures.

Brown was married three times, including to Phyllis George, a former Miss America and television personality, with whom he had two children. He passed away on November 22, 2022, leaving a lasting impact on the business world and Kentucky politics.

Conclusion

John Y. Brown, Jr. was a dynamic figure whose career spanned business and politics. His success in turning KFC into a global brand and his tenure as Governor of Kentucky showcase his innovative approach and ability to navigate different fields effectively. His legacy continues to be felt in the fast food industry and Kentucky.