Jim graduated from R.E. Lee High school in 1972 and went on to earn a bachelor's degree from Georgia Tech, a master's degree in business from the University of Chicago, and a law degree from Stanford University. He was a CPA and a CMA. After graduation from Stanford, Jim practiced law with Brobeck. Phleger, and Harrison in San Diego. He held a number of financial and business positions with The Mead Corporation in Dayton Ohio, including corporate treasurer, and positions in sales and marketing. He had recently retired as vice-president, finance and chief financial officer for Georgia Gulf Corporation. Jim joined Georgia Gulf in March 2001 as corporate controller. He was promoted to vice-president/ treasurer in 2002, before becoming CFO in January 2003.