John A. James has been a businessman, entrepreneur, and philanthropist in Detroit for over 50 years. Married to his wife of 43 years, Sharon James, he is father to John, Lorron, and Keri James and the proud grandfather of 5 boys.

Born in Mississippi in 1941, James grew up with 8 other brothers and sisters in a modest home in a town called Starkville. He obtained his first job when he was only 8 years of age sweeping floors in a general store to make money to contribute to the family. Ever since he was young Mr. James found great value in discipline, responsibility, and hard work.

He earned his Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Education from Mississippi Valley State University in 1964. Four years later John James enlisted in the United States Army, May 26, 1968, at the age of 26. Although stationed at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri as an adjutant, his duty was served during two tours in Vietnam during the War. Because of his meritorious service and exceptional performance while there, he was awarded several medals and certificates by the US government.

In 1973, James petitioned for the right to transport car components and beer within the state of Michigan as well as across state lines. He applied for the right to be what they called a “common carrier” so that he could haul automobile parts and malt beverages. This move was protested by the ICC or Interstate Commerce Commission for over 3 years until it was eventually carried into the Supreme Court. In 1976 the Supreme court ruled in favor of John James, granting him the authority to transport between states. His victory also allowed women and minorities to enter transportation; an industry which was exclusively for White males. Following his Supreme Court win, The Motor carrier Act of 1933 was amended in 1980 and signed by President Jimmy Carter. By advocating for himself and what he believed in, John James changed history.

After effecting legislation and changing the transportation industry forever, John James focused on fostering the growth of his first company, O-J Transportation Co., which he created in partnership with his uncle, Calvin Outlaw to provide freight transportation services. Years later, James had the foresight to grow his business on an international scale. He kept domestic business, but also made the decision to focus efforts on gaining business overseas. Today there are multiple companies functioning under the umbrella of James Group International:

Renaissance Global Logistics (RGL)- Ford International Export OperationRGL- General Motors Outlet Shop (GMOS)
RGL- General Motors Supplier Risk Management (SRM)
Magnolia Automotive Services (MAS)- Tire and Wheel Assembly, Toyota Motor Manufacturing
Mississippi (TMMMS)
MAS- Tire and Wheel Assembly, Mazda/Toyota Motor US (MTMUS)
MAS- Cross Dock Operation, Toyota
Five Crowns Trucking (FTC)- Jefferson North Assembly Plant
FTC- Sterling Heights Assembly Plant
JLK Real Estate
OJ Land Facilities Management
FreightVerify- Shareholder

Fifty years later, under the leadership of Lorron and John E. James, the James Group family of companies continues to thrive by providing comprehensive, innovative and integrated supply chain solutions in the areas of warehousing, transportation and value-added services. The company has had the unique privilege of partnering with Ford, General Motors, Stellantis and Toyota.

James Group has exhibited visionary and insightful leadership to confront and resolve inequities. One of it’s strategic goals is to make sure to understand and support it’s valued partners.

That fearless yet compassionate spirit of serving others and giving back to the community prevails to this day. Mr. James is a passionate advocate for those in need and actively supports families, disadvantaged children and minority, women, and veteran owned businesses. His generosity supports organizations from the MS society, Boys & Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan, Vista Maria the MMSDC, NABS and the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy. During the pandemic James Group went into action by donating truckloads of boxes to Ford to help them pack ventilators. Throughout the pandemic, much needed PPE was delivered to churches, homeless shelters, and community centers in Detroit by our team of dedicated volunteers. James Group also worked with the City of Detroit to sponsor two onsite vaccination clinics to educate and support those in need. Despite the uncertainty and anxiety of the pandemic, they were steadfast in their commitment to maintain their dedication to its annual United Way campaign which yielded the highest result in the history of the company along with an additional donation to the Pandemic Relief fund.

John James remains an integral part of Detroit’s community, as he generously contributes to various organizations such as:
Wayne County Economic Development Corporation
Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan
Museum of African American History
Coleman A. Young Foundation
National Association of Black Automotive Suppliers, Co-Founder (NABAS)
Michigan District Export Council
World Trade Club
Transportation Club of Detroit
Southwest Detroit Business Association
Crimestoppers
Citizenship Education Fund
APACC- Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce
African Relief Fund
Detroit Regional Chamber
Detroit Economic Growth Corporation
YMCA of Metro Detroit
LA SED- Latin Americans for Social and Economic Development
Thank you for your consideration of John A. James for the laudable honor of being inducted into the MMSDC Hall of Fame.