James is responsible for the leadership and growth of Austin & Co., Inc., in addition to new business and client retention in employee benefits.

James has spent more than 20 years establishing a particular expertise in the areas of educational institutions and not-for-profit organizations. His emphasis on group insurance has helped hundreds of clients control and manage escalating medical costs through creative financial and carve-out strategies. In addition, James successfully created a healthcare consortium for New York State Independent Schools and continues to represent the consortium as both a consultant and broker.

James received his B.A. degree from Hartwick College, he maintains his Life, Accident & Health License and is a Registered Health Underwriter (RHU) and Chartered Healthcare Consultant® (ChHC®).