Linda Johnson Rice Speaking Fee: $20,000 to $30,000
Speaking Fee:
$20,000 to $30,000
Travels From:
PHL - Philadelphia, PA
Travels From:
PHL - Philadelphia, PA
Primary Topic Category:
Business & Entrepreneurship
Primary Topic Category:
Business & Entrepreneurship
Secondary Topic Category:
African American & Black
Secondary Topic Category:
African American & Black
Linda Johnson Rice Speaker Profile: At A Glance
Linda Johnson Rice is a renowned business executive and media mogul. As the Chairman and CEO of Johnson Publishing Company, she led the company, known for its iconic Ebony and Jet magazines. Johnson Rice is also notable for being the first African American female CEO among the top five of the Black Enterprise 100s largest black-owned companies. Her leadership extends to numerous corporate boards, including Omnicom Group and Enova, and she remains a prominent advocate for the black community.
Linda Johnson Rice, born on March 22, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois, is a powerful figure in the American media landscape. She grew up immersed in the world of publishing, with her father, John H. Johnson, founding Johnson Publishing Company, which became the largest African American-owned publishing firm in the United States. Her mother, Eunice Johnson, was the creative force behind the Ebony Fashion Fair. Linda's early exposure to this dynamic industry laid the foundation for her future career.
In 2002, Johnson Rice became the Chairman and CEO of Johnson Publishing Company. Under her leadership, the company navigated the challenges of a rapidly changing media landscape. Despite the eventual sale of its key assets, Ebony and Jet magazines, Johnson Rice's influence remained strong. She is recognized for her resilience and ability to pivot, continuing to highlight the importance of the black experience in America through various media and philanthropic endeavors.
Beyond publishing, Johnson Rice has made significant contributions to corporate America. She serves on the boards of several major corporations, including Omnicom Media Group and Enova International. Her board experience spans industries from consumer goods to technology, showcasing her versatility and leadership acumen. Additionally, she is actively involved in philanthropic work, including her role as President of the Chicago Public Library Board and Co-Chair Emeritus of The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Linda Johnson Rice's career is a testament to her ability to adapt and lead through challenging times. Her journey reflects a blend of maintaining her family's legacy and innovating for the future, making her a respected voice in business and a beacon of inspiration for many.