James has extensive experience in starting and managing businesses and mentoring and coaching others who strive to improve their leadership and attain their professional, business, and personal aspirations.

James spent 20 years in expanding responsibility, including a co-business unit leader of a $400 million highly technical operation. He has held leadership roles in Market Development, Marketing and Technical Services, and Manufacturing.

James has 15 years of experience in start-up, turn-around, maintenance, and sales of entrepreneurial businesses. His current is COO and Principal of the Heffelfinger Company.

James has extensive board experience as a long time member of Rotary where he has served as President, Vice President, Treasuer and Secretary and he is frequently called back by his chapter to coach the current board members. He is currently InBound Coordinator for Rotary Youth Exchange for Southern California – managing the placement of High School students into year-long exchange programs across the globe and the training of Host Parents.

James has a Master’s in Organization Development from Pepperdine University, Executive Coach Certification from Hudson Institute of Santa Barbara and recently completed a Leadership Coaching in Social Justice through the University of Rochester, NY.