James “JT” Taylor is a Managing Partner at Accrual Equity Partners (AEP), where he brings nearly 40 years of leadership experience across the automotive, retail, and investment banking sectors. In his role, JT collaborates with AEP’s portfolio companies to drive growth, expansion, technology integration, as well as operational, customer experience and financial improvements, to create value for the businesses and investors. JT also serves on the AEP Board of Advisors and as chair of the Investment Committee.
With a career rooted in a deep passion for the automotive industry, JT has built a national reputation as a trusted advisor, operator, and connector across dealership networks, technology ventures, and mobility-related enterprises. JT is known for his people-first approach and his ability to bring deep industry insight to both operational and financial decision-making.
JT joined AEP from Truist Securities, where he built and led the Automotive Retail practice within the Consumer & Retail Investment Banking Group, providing strategic transaction guidance on M&A, equity and debt capital raises, and broader financial structuring for both public and private clients. His work spanned sub-verticals including new and independent auto dealerships, recreational and heavy-duty vehicles, equipment leasing, auctions, and mobility-related technologies.
Before joining The Presidio Group in 2014, where he led the firm’s investment banking practice for automotive retail, JT led the product planning team for Toyota Motor Sales North America and then became one of the first employees on the Lexus launch team. Following a series of rapid promotions at Toyota, JT transitioned to the retail side of the business, serving as an operating partner in several successful dealerships and consulting for leading organizations such as Joe Gibbs Racing and Southeast Toyota Distributors. His experience includes serving as a dealer principal, general manager, and advisor to the largest Toyota distributor in the world.
JT and his wife, Christie, split their time between South Florida and Western North Carolina, where they enjoy spending time with their six adult children and twelve grandchildren. A devoted motorsports enthusiast, JT rarely misses an opportunity to attend a race, so long as it has four wheels and a motor.
