Logo
SubscribeSign In
LeaderPortfolio
Billionaire Profile
J. Wayne Weaver
Global Rank
#2623

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

J. Wayne Weaver

CEO, Shoe Carnival
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.1B
As of December 2025
Age
90
Source
Shoes
Industry
diversified
Citizenship
US

Biography

J. Wayne Weaver, a US citizen born on January 14, 1935, is a prominent figure in the business world. Known for his success in the shoe industry and his role in bringing the Jacksonville Jaguars to the NFL, Weaver has a net worth of $1.1 billion as of 2024. His wealth stems from his ownership of shoe store chains such as Shoe Carnival, where he serves as Chairman of the Board. Weaver's career highlights include founding his own shoe corporation in 1978 and selling it in the 1990s, before becoming Chairman of the Board at Shoe Carnival. Weaver's achievements also include leading the ownership group that secured an NFL expansion team for Jacksonville in 1993.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

J. Wayne Weaver was born on January 14, 1935, in Columbus, Georgia. Not much is known about his early years and childhood.

Rise to Success

Weaver began his career working his way up the corporate ladder at Brown Group, Inc.. In 1978, Weaver founded his own shoe corporation and later sold it in the 1990s. He is currently the chairman of shoe retailer Shoe Carnival. Weaver was the first owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars of the National Football League (NFL) from 1993 to 2011. He sold his stake in the Jaguars to billionaire Shahid Khan in 2011 for $770 million.

Key Business Strategies

Weaver's success can be attributed to his grit and determination. Weaver has proven that it is possible to succeed beyond your idea of what's reasonable to expect.

Philanthropy

Together, Weaver and his wife, Delores, have set up a charitable organization called the Jaguars Foundation. They have donated approximately $15 million to various community causes. Since 2007, they have given The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida an estimated $135 million.

Career Milestones

1978

Founded Shoe Corporation

J. Wayne Weaver founded his own shoe corporation

1988

Chairman of the Board at Shoe Carnival

Became Chairman of the Board at Shoe Carnival

1993

Owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars

Led the ownership group that won rights to an NFL expansion team, the Jacksonville Jaguars

2011

Sold the Jaguars

Sold his stake in the Jaguars to Shahid Khan.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Community Support

Jaguars Foundation

$15M

Donated to various community causes.

Community Support

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

$135M

Given to the foundation since 2007.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"I always believed that people who have the wherewithal have a responsibility to make a difference."

Leadership Principles

Commitment

Always giving your best effort to complete a task.

Positive Attitude

The power to stay positive despite the circumstances.

Patience

Waiting without complaint.