James Harris
About James Harris
James Harris serves as the CEO of Elemental Interactive and has held various leadership roles in multiple organizations, including as an advisor at MYAVANA and co-founder of Core Founders & Brands. He has a strong educational background in Management Information Systems and has been involved in initiatives supporting inner-city children and Black and Brown entrepreneurs.
Current Roles and Responsibilities
James Harris serves as the CEO of Elemental Interactive at Grey Group, a position he has held since 1999. He also co-founded and is a partner at The Core Venture Studio and Core Founders & Brands, both located in Atlanta, Georgia. Additionally, he has been an advisor and mentor at MYAVANA since 2012. Harris is the CEO and founding partner of N4MD, which he has led since 2011. His diverse roles reflect a commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship in the tech and creative sectors.
Educational Background
James Harris completed his high school education at Southwest Dekalb High School from 1981 to 1985. He then attended Tennessee Technological University, where he studied Management Information Systems and earned a B.A. from 1985 to 1990. Furthering his education, he studied at Georgia Tech / Flashpoint from 2011 to 2013. His educational experiences have equipped him with a solid foundation in technology and management.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Harris co-founded Collider, one of the first affordable co-working spaces in Atlanta, strategically located near Georgia Tech's business school. He repurchased Elemental Interactive from WPP in 2003, maintaining a minority ownership stake. His entrepreneurial efforts extend to developing Camp Freedom, a camp focused on environmentalism, mathematics, and technology for inner-city children in Tennessee. These initiatives highlight his dedication to fostering innovation and community development.
Client Engagements and Impact
Elemental Interactive, under Harris's leadership, has worked with a range of high-profile clients, including AFLAC, Ameritrade, AT&T, Avaya, and The Coca-Cola Company. N4MD's initial customer was Home Depot, followed by notable clients such as Nissan North America, Maui Jim sunglasses, and Sears. These partnerships demonstrate Harris's ability to engage with major companies and deliver impactful solutions in the tech and marketing sectors.
Recognition and Awards
In 1999, James Harris was recognized as Tennessee Tech’s Outstanding Young Alumnus. This accolade reflects his contributions to the field and his commitment to excellence in his professional endeavors. His recognition underscores his influence and achievements in the technology and entrepreneurial landscape.