James Arthur Haslam III, known as Jimmy Haslam, has established himself as a prominent businessman and sports executive in the United States. He began his career at Pilot Corporation in 1976, the company founded by his father. By 1980, he was appointed vice president of sales, development, and operations, overseeing significant growth as Pilot expanded from 100 convenience stores to a robust network of travel centers. Under his leadership, Pilot became one of the largest privately held companies in the U.S., with over 24,000 employees and a vast network of services for truck drivers and travelers alike.

In addition to his business acumen, Haslam has made a significant impact in the sports world. He purchased the Cleveland Browns in 2012 for $987 million, a move that was unanimously approved by NFL owners. Since taking ownership, he has navigated the team through challenges, culminating in a historic 2020 season where the Browns achieved their first winning record and playoff victory in decades. His commitment to the team has been evident as he continues to invest in its success.

Haslam’s influence extends beyond football; he also owns the Columbus Crew, a Major League Soccer team, which he acquired in 2018. Under his ownership, the Crew won the MLS Cup in both 2020 and 2023, showcasing his ability to foster winning teams across different sports.

In 2023, Haslam expanded his sports portfolio by purchasing a stake in the Milwaukee Bucks, further solidifying his presence in the sports industry. His dedication to both business and sports has made him a respected figure, known for his leadership and philanthropic efforts in the Knoxville community and beyond.