Jim has been an active investor for over 30 years, with a primary interest in real estate and early-stage start-ups. He is currently on the advisory boards of Rancon Group and U.S. Bank San Diego Region, plus is an advisor to two San Diego area start-ups. Jim is the immediate past chair of San Diego Theaters. Jim was the Co-founder of Cleantech San Diego in 2007, and served as Executive Chair for 10 years. Jim has been actively involved in a variety of San Diego civic organizations. He was the San Diego Deputy Chief Operating officer for Land use and Economic Development in 2007 and 2008. Jim has also served on the Board and Executive Committee of the San Diego EDC, and was the first co-chair of the EDC's inclusive growth initiative. He was a practicing attorney for over 20 years with an emphasis in taxation and transaction negotiations. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from University of Southern California, a law degree from University of San Diego, and a master’s degree in peace and justice studies from University of San Diego.