James Williams

James leads the advocacy, communications and external affairs portfolios for Arnold Ventures. In this role, James oversees investments and strategy at the state and federal levels to achieve evidence-based policy solutions and curates strategies to support lawmakers and advocates working on bipartisan initiatives.

Previously, James served as the Vice President for Criminal Justice Advocacy at Arnold Ventures, where he directed the state and federal advocacy portfolio for bipartisan criminal justice reform.

James brings to Arnold Ventures a 20-year track record of advocacy success across a diverse portfolio of policy issues. Prior to joining Arnold Ventures, he was Founder and President of Engage Cuba, the leading bipartisan coalition of businesses and organizations working to promote stronger economic engagement with Cuba, where he led a successful national effort to re-establish diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba. He established bipartisan state councils of business and civic leaders in 19 states and partnerships in all 50 states.

Previously, James served as the Director of Public Policy at Trimpa Group, providing strategic political and government relations consulting for philanthropists, corporations, and nonprofit clients. James has also coordinated partnerships for the German Marshall Fund of the United States, an international public policy and grant-making institution dedicated to improving transatlantic relations.

His work has been regularly featured in the national and international media, including the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, CNBC, Fox News, NPR, and CNN.

James graduated with a bachelor’s degree in international affairs from George Washington University.