James has 37 years of experience in the banking industry. He was the chief lending officer for the Bank of Utah for over a decade, before assuming its two top positions five years ago. Bank of Utah, the largest community bank in the state, manages assets of over $525 million, and has branches in Cache, Box Elder, Weber, Salt Lake, and Davis Counties. James has previously held positions at Zions Bank, Citizens Bank, Commercial Security Bank, and Wells Fargo.

He earned a bachelor’s degree at Brigham Young University in banking and finance, and he is a graduate of the Pacific Coast Banking School. He has also received several certificates from the American Institute of Banking.

James currently serves on several professional boards. He also engages in volunteer service for many organizations including the Utah Bankers Association, Boy Scouts of America, and various Chambers of Commerce.