James leads Development at Columbia Hospitality, overseeing new business development, acquisitions, property pre-opening, property transitions, ongoing owner relations, and long-term financial planning across the company’s portfolio. Since joining Columbia in 2018, James has played a central role in driving the firm’s strategic growth, partnering closely with investor groups to identify opportunities, negotiate partnerships, and guide projects from initial feasibility through stabilization. His expertise spans development, financial planning, and property operations, ensuring each asset is positioned for long-term operational and financial success.

Prior to Columbia Hospitality, James worked at Northern Trust in Chicago, where he focused on commercial real estate lending and corporate strategy. He has also served in leadership roles at several leading hotel properties throughout the Pacific Northwest, along with holding various development and business development positions. This combination of on-property operational leadership and institutional real estate experience informs his thoughtful, relationship-driven approach to growth and asset stewardship.

James is a graduate of the University of Puget Sound and serves on the board of IslandWood. Outside of work and community involvement, he enjoys spending time outdoors, cooking, running, and with friends and family. He and his wife, Tess, are proud to call Seattle home.