John McConnell | $1B+
Get in touch with John McConnell | John P. McConnell, executive chairman and former CEO of Worthington Industries, has carried forward one of America’s most respected manufacturing legacies, expanding the steel-processing company founded by his father into a diversified industrial group. Under his leadership, Worthington broadened into pressure cylinders, automotive components, and consumer products, while maintaining its signature “Golden Rule” corporate culture rooted in employee-first values, profit sharing, and conservative financial discipline. McConnell has also played a significant civic role in Ohio, including ownership of the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets, reinforcing his influence in both regional economic development and professional sports. His long-term stewardship reflects a blend of operational rigor and community-focused leadership uncommon in modern industry.
John P. McConnell is an American businessman who served as chairman and chief executive officer of Worthington Industries, a global diversified metals processing company founded by his father in 1955, from 1996 until stepping down as CEO in 2020 and retiring from the board in 2023.[1][2] He joined the company in 1975 as a general laborer at a steel plant in Louisville, Kentucky, and advanced through roles in sales, operations, and personnel over more than two decades before assuming leadership.[2][1]
As majority owner and governor of the National Hockey League's Columbus Blue Jackets franchise—originally established by his father John H. McConnell in 2000—McConnell has continued the team's operations in central Ohio following his father's death in 2008, and is transitioning majority ownership to his son John H. McConnell II as of 2025.[3][4] Under his stewardship through 2023, Worthington Industries grew into a Fortune 1000 company with net sales of approximately $4.9 billion in fiscal 2023, operations in 52 facilities across 9 countries, and approximately 9,500 employees, prior to the company's split into Worthington Enterprises and Worthington Steel in December 2023.[5][6] McConnell has also been active in philanthropy, serving as chairman emeritus of the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation, which has distributed more than $14 million in grants since its inception, and has held board positions with organizations such as OhioHealth, the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce, Nationwide Children's Hospital, the YMCA, and the Columbus Zoological Association.[7]
Early life and education
Family background
John P. McConnell was born in 1953 in Columbus, Ohio, into a family deeply rooted in the steel industry and shaped by mid-20th-century American entrepreneurial spirit.[8] His father, John H. McConnell, was a self-made businessman who founded Worthington Industries in 1955 after working as a steel salesman; the elder McConnell also later became the founding owner of the Columbus Blue Jackets NHL franchise. Born on May 10, 1923, in Pughtown (now New Manchester), West Virginia, to a steelworker father earning modest wages during the Great Depression, John H. developed an unyielding work ethic from his early years of hardship, including helping deliver mail as a child to earn small rewards like ice cream cones.[9][10] This background profoundly influenced the family's business ethos, prioritizing resilience and opportunity in the metals sector.[11]
McConnell's mother, Margaret Jane "Peggy" Rardin McConnell, whom his father married after World War II, provided a stable home environment amid the family's growing involvement in industry. Born on December 18, 1923, in Chester, West Virginia, she supported the household as the company took root in Columbus, where the family relocated following its founding. As a young child, McConnell gained early exposure to the steel business through his father's nascent enterprise, witnessing the hands-on operations of Worthington Industries from toddlerhood onward, which immersed him in the practicalities of metals processing and sales.[9][12]
McConnell grew up alongside his sister, Margaret McConnell (later known as Margaret Kollis), in this industrious setting, where family discussions often revolved around the steel trade. The elder McConnell's Depression-era lessons on perseverance and fair employee treatment became core family values, emphasizing respect for workers as a foundation for success—a principle John P. later credited as his father's enduring legacy.[13][11]
Academic career
John P. McConnell attended high school in the Columbus area, graduating from Worthington High School in 1972.[14][15]
He earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration from The Ohio State University.[16] McConnell later completed a Master of Business Administration at the same institution.[16]
His business-focused curriculum at The Ohio State University provided foundational knowledge in management principles, finance, and operations, equipping him with essential skills for leadership in the steel processing and manufacturing industry.[16]
Career at Worthington Industries
Initial roles and progression
John P. McConnell joined Worthington Industries in 1975 as a general laborer at the company's steel plant in Louisville, Kentucky, performing hands-on physical tasks such as operating machinery and production line work.[2][17] This entry-level role provided him with foundational experience in the operational demands of steel processing.
In the late 1970s, McConnell advanced to sales representative positions for two of Worthington's divisions, where he developed skills in customer relations and market dynamics, building on his business education.[18] By the early 1980s, he had progressed to corporate personnel director, playing a key role in implementing the company's employee recognition and incentive programs that emphasized respect and motivation.[19]
In 1985, McConnell was promoted to Vice President and General Manager of the steel processing facility in Columbus, Ohio, overseeing production operations, staff management, and facility efficiency.[17] He joined the company's board of directors in 1990 and was appointed Vice Chairman in 1992, marking his transition toward higher-level strategic involvement.[19]
Throughout his early career, McConnell's bottom-up progression exemplified Worthington's family-instilled philosophy of earning respect through direct engagement with employee roles and operational realities, fostering a deep understanding of the workforce.[18]
Leadership as CEO and chairman
John P. McConnell was appointed chief executive officer of Worthington Industries in March 1993, succeeding his father, John H. McConnell, who transitioned to chairman of the board. McConnell had joined the company in 1975 and advanced through various operational roles before assuming the top executive position. In September 1996, succeeding his father who stepped down as chairman, he assumed the additional role of chairman, becoming the chairman and CEO.[20][21]
Under McConnell's leadership, Worthington Industries expanded its operations through diversification in metals processing and entry into global markets. The company pursued strategic acquisitions, such as the 1996 purchase of Dietrich Industries, which strengthened its position in metal framing and steel processing. This period saw significant revenue growth, with net sales rising from approximately $1.7 billion in fiscal 1996 to $2.8 billion by fiscal 2020, having exceeded $3 billion in intervening years such as $3.8 billion in fiscal 2018, driven by increased demand in automotive, construction, and energy sectors. McConnell oversaw the establishment of international joint ventures and facilities, enhancing the company's global footprint in North America, Europe, and Asia.[22][23][24]
McConnell continued and expanded his father's legacy of employee-focused policies, notably the profit-sharing program initiated in 1966, which distributed a portion of company profits to employees to foster motivation and loyalty. This approach contributed to low turnover rates and a strong corporate culture, with all production workers placed on salary plans to emphasize stability over hourly wages. These initiatives were credited with supporting workforce engagement during periods of expansion and economic variability.[14][25]
In September 2020, McConnell stepped down as CEO, handing the role to company president Andy Rose while transitioning to executive chairman to guide strategic direction. He retired from the chairman position in December 2023, with John B. Blystone, the lead independent director, succeeding him as executive chairman. This succession marked the end of direct McConnell family leadership at the executive level after nearly seven decades.[26][21]
Involvement with Columbus Blue Jackets
Ownership acquisition
Following the death of his father, John H. McConnell, on April 25, 2008, John P. McConnell inherited majority ownership of the Columbus Blue Jackets, the National Hockey League franchise his father had founded and launched in 2000.[9][2] The transition had been planned for years, ensuring a smooth handover without immediate disruption to franchise operations.[27]
As majority owner, McConnell assumed the role of governor for the team through the family's private holding company, JMAC, Inc.[3]
In the wake of the acquisition and amid the emerging global financial recession that began in late 2008, McConnell prioritized stabilizing the team's operations by retaining key executives, including president Mike Priest and general manager Scott Howson, to maintain continuity and focus on competitiveness.[27] He also publicly committed to Columbus as the franchise's long-term home, emphasizing that the team was established there with no initial intent to relocate, though he acknowledged economic uncertainties could pose challenges.[28]
To sustain control and counter early relocation pressures stemming from financial strains, McConnell provided personal investments via JMAC, Inc., subsidizing operations during the recession to keep the team viable in its founding city.[29][30]
Governance and developments
Following the death of his father, John H. McConnell, in April 2008, John P. McConnell assumed the roles of majority owner, chairman, and governor of the Columbus Blue Jackets.[31] As governor, McConnell has provided strategic oversight for key hockey operations, including the hiring of coaches and general managers. For instance, in 2012, he directly approved the appointment of John Davidson as president of hockey operations to oversee general manager Scott Howson and guide the team's rebuilding efforts.[32] Under his leadership, the organization expanded its scouting department, adding amateur and pro scouts to enhance talent evaluation, and established a dedicated hockey analytics team, with Zac Urback appointed as director in recent years to integrate data-driven decision-making into player acquisition and game strategy.[33][34]
McConnell's governance has driven several key developments for the franchise. The team achieved notable on-ice success, including playoff appearances in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020, with the 2019 postseason marking a milestone as the Blue Jackets won their first playoff series by sweeping the defending champion Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round.[35] Off the ice, enhancements to Nationwide Arena have been prioritized to improve fan experience and operational efficiency; in 2013, the arena received major upgrades including a new high-definition scoreboard, while in 2025, McConnell's ownership group announced plans for a $400 million renovation over four to five years, featuring expanded entrances, improved accessibility with added elevators and a pedestrian bridge, and modernized food and beverage operations.[36][37] These initiatives have supported community integration by strengthening the Arena District's role as a downtown hub, hosting non-hockey events like concerts and public gatherings to foster broader civic engagement.[38]
Financially, McConnell has navigated the franchise through periods of challenge, including early operating losses of about $12 million annually in 2009 due to arena debt obligations, by restructuring payments and leveraging sponsorships for revenue growth.[39] The team now generates approximately $150 million in annual revenue, net of arena debt service, bolstered by long-term deals such as the naming rights partnership with Nationwide Insurance, which has contributed to stabilizing the club's finances and funding operational investments.[40] Throughout his tenure, McConnell balanced these responsibilities with his executive duties at Worthington Industries, where he served as chairman and CEO until retiring from the board in September 2023, allowing greater focus on the Blue Jackets amid ongoing succession planning.[41][4]
Philanthropy and civic engagement
Foundation and community support
John P. McConnell serves as Chairman Emeritus of the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation, a nonprofit organization established in 2000 to enhance the quality of life in central Ohio through charitable initiatives.[7] Under his leadership and ongoing support, the foundation has focused on youth hockey programs to grow participation and reduce barriers to access, including scholarships and rink development projects that have served thousands of young athletes.[7] It has also invested in education through the Book Jackets literacy program and annual scholarships, such as the John H. McConnell Scholarship awarded to high school seniors pursuing higher education.[7] In health and wellness, the foundation has allocated over $8.1 million to youth initiatives, including safety education and pediatric cancer support via programs like Hats for Heroes, which has raised more than $4 million for research and care since inception.[7] Overall, the foundation has granted more than $15 million since 2000.[42]
McConnell has contributed to veterans' causes through personal and family philanthropy, including support for the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus via the John H. McConnell Foundation, which he helps oversee and which served as a founding donor.[43] The John H. McConnell Foundation, which he helps oversee, has provided funding to the museum as part of broader efforts to honor military service and promote veteran welfare in Ohio.[43]
McConnell extends his philanthropic legacy through ties to the John H. McConnell Foundation, established in 1989, where he serves in a leadership capacity. The foundation continues his father's vision by granting funds for health services, such as support for medical facilities and wellness programs, and education initiatives, including scholarships and school enhancements in central Ohio.[44] These contributions emphasize long-term community betterment over decades.[44] As of 2025, the foundation continues to support community events, such as the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation Golf Classic.[45]
Board roles and awards
John P. McConnell has held several prominent board positions reflecting his commitment to civic and community development in Columbus, Ohio. He previously served on the board of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (through its governing Columbus Zoological Association), a role he maintained to advance conservation and educational initiatives.[3]
McConnell previously served on the boards of the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce, Nationwide Children's Hospital, and the YMCA of the USA, contributing to economic growth, healthcare, and youth development in the region.[3] His sustained civic engagement, including through these boards, has helped position Columbus as a vibrant major league city by fostering business and community partnerships.[3]
In recognition of his business and community leadership, McConnell received the 2012 Columbus Award from the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, the organization's highest honor for exemplary contributions to the region's progress.[46]
Under McConnell's leadership at Worthington Industries, the company has earned accolades for ethical business practices tied to civic impact, including consistent recognition in sustainability and corporate citizenship reports that highlight its professional conduct and community-oriented philosophy.[47]
Personal life
Marriage and family
John P. McConnell was first married to Malinda Rose Williams on November 26, 1983, in Delaware County, Ohio.[48] Together, they had three sons: John Preston McConnell, who passed away in 2013; William A. McConnell; and Geoffrey McConnell.[49]
McConnell was previously married to Malinda Rose Williams. He later married Catherine "Kit" Zahn McConnell.[49] The family resides in Delaware, Ohio, where they lead a relatively private life centered on family and business interests.[2]
McConnell and his family are actively involved in JMAC, Inc., the private holding company that manages their investments, including majority ownership of the Columbus Blue Jackets.[3] His sons maintain low public profiles but contribute to the family's business endeavors through this entity.[49]
Retirement and current activities
John P. McConnell retired from his role as Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors at Worthington Industries in December 2023, concluding nearly five decades of leadership at the family-founded steel processing company.[50][41]
Following his retirement, McConnell maintains majority ownership of the Columbus Blue Jackets NHL franchise through the family holding company JMAC, Inc., where he continues to participate in governance as governor, while his son, John H. McConnell II, serves as alternate governor and chairman of JMAC, Inc., positioning him for future leadership transition.[3][4][16]
In his post-executive phase, McConnell has emphasized advocacy for veterans' issues and community development initiatives in Ohio, including service on the board of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus.[3] He also pursues low-profile personal interests, notably a continued enthusiasm for sports, particularly hockey through his longstanding involvement with the Blue Jackets.[3]
As of September 2025, McConnell's net worth is estimated at $1.47 billion, largely attributable to his substantial ownership stake in Worthington Industries stock
Disclaimer: This profile is based on publicly available information. No endorsement or affiliation is implied.
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