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Billionaire Profile
Terry Taylor
Global Rank
#1850

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Terry Taylor

CEO, Automotive Management Services Inc. (AMSI)
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.9B
As of December 2025
Age
74
Source
Car dealerships
Industry
automotive
Citizenship
US

Biography

Terry Taylor is a prominent figure in the automotive industry, best known for founding Automotive Management Services Inc. (AMSI), which oversees a vast network of over 120 car dealerships across the United States. His wealth source is primarily from these Car dealerships. As of January 2024, his estimated net worth is $1.9 billion. Taylor's career began in the family's used Ford lot, leading him to purchase his first new car dealership in 1982. He has expanded his empire through strategic acquisitions and partnerships, offering general managers equity stakes to foster a sense of ownership and commitment. Known for his private nature, Taylor's business acumen has established him as a major player in the automotive sector.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Terry Taylor's journey into the automotive industry began with his father, Warren Taylor, who opened a used Ford lot in Daytona Beach after serving in the Marine Corps. Terry gained early experience working at the dealership during his teens. In 1975, at the age of 23, he was made vice president of the company.

Rise to Success

After gaining experience working with his father, Taylor embarked on his own entrepreneurial path. In 1982, he purchased his first new car dealership in Daytona Beach, selling Fords. From this initial venture, he gradually expanded his business, buying dealerships in North Florida, selling various models of Fords and Toyotas. He then expanded into luxury car brands, including Mercedes, Lexus, and Porsche.

Key Business Strategies

A core aspect of Taylor's strategy has been his focus on building partnerships. He offers his general managers a minority equity stake, typically around 20-25%, in their respective dealerships. He also offers to finance the buy-in, which motivates the general managers to ensure strong performance. Taylor's empire includes Automotive Management Services Inc. (AMSI). Through careful acquisitions and consolidations, Taylor built a large network, including over 120 dealerships nationwide.

Philanthropy

Information on Terry Taylor's philanthropic activities is limited. Further research would be needed to identify specific initiatives or amounts donated.

Career Milestones

1982

Bought First Dealership

Purchased his first new car dealership, selling Fords, in Daytona Beach, Florida.

1990s

Expanded Dealerships

Acquired dealerships in the Southeast, particularly in Florida

2000s

Expanded into Luxury Brands

Expanded into luxury car brands such as Mercedes, Lexus, and Porsche.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""I like to keep a low profile,""

""So much of success in this business is about people. When you have the right people it normally will succeed.""

Leadership Principles

Partnership

Offers general managers equity stakes to incentivize strong performance

Discretion

Maintains a low public profile.

Controversies & Challenges

2017

Lawsuit

A former dealership manager filed a lawsuit against Taylor for fraud, alleging that Taylor funneled money from the dealership into his own pockets.