The retail real estate industry is mourning the loss of James M. Taylor Jr., former Chief Executive Officer of Brixmor Property Group, whose leadership helped shape one of the nation’s largest owners and operators of open-air shopping centers.

Brixmor announced Taylor’s passing while paying tribute to his decades of service, industry leadership, and lasting impact on the company and the broader commercial real estate sector.

Taylor served as Brixmor’s CEO from 2016 until his retirement in December 2025. During his tenure, he guided the company through a period of significant growth and transformation, helping strengthen its position within the retail real estate investment trust (REIT) industry.

Under Taylor’s leadership, Brixmor adapted to changing consumer habits and the continued growth of e-commerce by focusing on high-quality open-air shopping centers anchored by grocery stores, value retailers, and service-oriented businesses. The strategy helped position the company for long-term success during a challenging period for many traditional retail operators.

Current CEO and President Brian T. Finnegan remembered Taylor as an influential leader whose impact extended well beyond financial performance.

“Jim was an exceptional leader who left a lasting impact on Brixmor and our industry,” Finnegan said in a statement. “He had a unique ability to bring clarity to complex situations, often using simple, memorable analogies that resonated with everyone around him.”

Colleagues described Taylor as a disciplined executive known for strategic thinking, strong governance, and a commitment to developing future leaders. Many credited him with mentoring employees and fostering a workplace culture built on collaboration, integrity, and accountability.

Finnegan also emphasized Taylor’s dedication to people, noting that he consistently prioritized the growth and well-being of those around him.

“More importantly, Jim was a trusted mentor, a genuine friend, and led with integrity, empathy, and a deep commitment to people,” Finnegan said.

Brixmor Board Chair Sheryl M. Crosland reflected on her longtime friendship with Taylor, describing him as a leader who made others feel valued and appreciated.

“Having known Jim for 30 years in the industry, I have always admired his gift for making people feel valued,” Crosland said. “Jim’s pride in his family always shone through, and in many ways, he treated the Brixmor team as a second family.”

Taylor is survived by his wife, Alice, and daughters, Gracie and Mary Lyle. Brixmor extended its condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and industry peers.

Today, Brixmor owns and manages hundreds of open-air shopping centers across the United States, and many of the strategic initiatives implemented during Taylor’s leadership continue to influence the company’s direction.

As colleagues and friends reflect on his life and career, James M. Taylor Jr. is being remembered not only for his business accomplishments but also for his character, mentorship, and commitment to helping others succeed.

His legacy will endure through the people he inspired, the organization he helped strengthen, and the lasting contributions he made to the retail real estate industry.