Spotlight: Patricia James

1 - Where are you from, and how did you choose to live in Middle Tennessee?

I was born outside of Chicago, IL, but relocated due to my Dad’s transfer at age 3. Over the course of my corporate career, I moved 14 times in 30 years. My father was from Nameless, TN, so it felt like coming home when I transferred to Middle Tennessee and I am here to stay!

2 - What is your professional background, and why did you become a coach?

I’ve had over a three-decade career in key management and leadership roles in three global corporations, as well as leading a nonprofit organization and founding my own consulting firm, PB&J Consulting. My professional experience focuses on human resources including leadership and talent development, coaching, performance management, training and development, career strategies, teambuilding, workforce planning, compensation and benefits planning.

Over the course of my career, I’ve been recognized as an inspirational leader, coach, and mentor, having advised leaders at every level, from CEO to emerging leader. I have a passion for mentoring, coaching, and lifelong learning. Intent on pursuing my passions in my encore career, coaching became a natural fit. In addition to coaching on business focused on competency-based training development and delivery, HR turnkey projects, business development, and nonprofit leadership solutions.

3 - How did you choose your specialty area?

For much of my career I coached, advised, mentored, and sponsored leaders at all levels. Frequently, this involved career transition. As a result, my coaching business focuses on career transitions and executive coaching.  

4 - What are the greatest challenges and greatest rewards of your career?

There has never been a dull moment in my career…which is both a challenge and a reward! My greatest reward has been helping launch and foster the careers of amazing teammates….from the production floor to the executive level!

5 - What is something that most ICFTN members would be surprised to learn about you?

I am a PK (preacher’s kid) which either makes me the best or worst behaved kid you knew. Coaching is close to my heart and my Dad’s work!

6 - How do you enjoy spending your free time?

I am in my encore career so in addition to coaching and consulting, I love to travel, cook, remodel and redecorate homes, and spend quality time with my family.