James joined Ascent Hospitality Management in 2023 as Chief Executive Officer. His career reflects a blend of quick service and fast casual restaurants and now includes family dining since joining Ascent Hospitality Management. Before taking the helm at Ascent, he served as CEO at Smokey Bones and Long John Silver’s. His diverse background includes several progressive leadership marketing roles Chief Concept Officer at Einstein Bagels and Chief Marketing Officer, and he was promoted to Chief Brand Officer at Sonic Drive-In.
James possesses a BS in biochemistry from McMaster University and earned an MBA from York University.