JumpStart, a leading nonprofit venture development organization, is pleased to announce the appointment of Corey James as its new Chief Equity, Outreach and Initiatives Officer. James will be taking over the role previously held by Lamont Mackley, who retired earlier this year.

In this function, James will play a pivotal role in advancing JumpStart’s work to foster an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem and promote equitable opportunities and economic outcomes for diverse entrepreneurs across northern Ohio. With a deep understanding of equity as a social and economic impact driver, James will champion diversity and inclusion, working closely with JumpStart, civic leaders and community organizations to sustain and scale effective strategies to advance economic equity, while developing and implementing proactive initiatives focused on economic impact, equity and inclusion.

“Joining JumpStart, an organization that has made a profound commitment to empowering communities through entrepreneurship, is a remarkable opportunity to continue making a difference,” said Corey James, the newly appointed Chief Equity, Outreach, and Initiatives Officer. “I’m excited to build on my experience in professional sports and transition into a new season of impact in the realm of economic development and community transformation.”

James brings with him an impressive background in business development and creative strategy, most recently serving as the Director, Diversity, Inclusion, Engagement & Foundation Development and other various leadership roles with The Cleveland Cavaliers over a 15-year tenure. James has worked with renowned brands such as NIKE, Goodyear, Moet Hennessy and McDonald’s and has a proven track record of driving impactful partnerships and fostering economic growth.

Teleangé Thomas, Chief Operations and Relationship Officer at JumpStart, expressed her enthusiasm for James’ appointment, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Corey to the JumpStart team. With his sound business acumen, diverse experience and visionary leadership, James is poised to deepen JumpStart’s commitment to equity and inclusion and make a significant difference in our region to advance economic impact and community transformation.”

In addition to his professional accomplishments, James is deeply engaged in community projects and serves on the boards of The Rainey Institute and NEO Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. He also recently held the position of 3rd Vice President of the Cleveland Branch of the NAACP. James is originally from Louisville, KY and graduated from The Ohio State University.