Jim Wood is a dynamic and results-oriented executive with over 30 years of proven success in leadership roles spanning corporate and investment banking, leasing/finance and media industries and real estate development. Jim has spent much of his career working closely with the Private Equity community including 20 years managing two P/E backed portfolio companies.  With a distinguished career defined by strategic vision, meticulous financial acumen, and exceptional communication skills, Jim consistently drives organizations toward peak performance.

Jim most recently served as Chief Executive Officer and Board Member of  private equity (“P/E”) owned VSS-Southern Theatres, one of America’s leading theater circuits. Under his stewardship from 2008 to 2023, the company grew to over $250 million in revenue and more than 2,000 employees, positioning itself as a market leader with industry leading attendance and gross margin growth.  He adeptly guided the company through significant disruptions, including the COVID-19 pandemic, by securing new senior debt financing, over $41 million in governmental financial aid and successfully negotiating all lease agreements.

An accomplished strategist, Jim oversaw the acquisition, integration, and profitable divestiture of Movie Tavern, doubling the company’s size and significantly enhancing its market presence. His forward-thinking initiatives resulted in substantial growth in ticket sales, customer satisfaction, and financial performance, showcasing his skillful management of complex operations and strategic transformations.

Jim’s earlier tenure following a successful investment banking career includes founding JW Broadcasting LLC (P/E owned), where he successfully revitalized underperforming television stations, significantly increasing profitability and market share. His visionary approach and disciplined financial management drove these stations from negative EBITDA to multi-million-dollar profitability at exit.

His extensive experience in investment banking at Wachovia Securities, where he served as Managing Director and Senior Vice President, highlights his expertise in corporate banking and treasury services, mergers and acquisitions, high-yield debt financing, and corporate financial strategy. At Wachovia, he managed billions in assets without incurring write-offs, illustrating his meticulous risk management skills.

Jim is recognized for his exceptional talent in building high-performing teams, demonstrated consistently across his career. His approach emphasizes collaborative leadership, fostering organizational cultures focused on results, innovation, and accountability. He is especially adept at recruiting and developing senior executives who thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments.

Beyond his corporate roles, Jim actively contributes his strategic insights and financial acumen to various boards and committees. In addition to his board role on VSS-Southern Theatres, he previously served on the board of P/E owned CTN media group and currently, he serves on the finance committee of a private school and serves on the committee of local New Orleans security district , leveraging his expertise to support community development and educational excellence.

Committed to lifelong learning and personal enrichment, Jim maintains a keen interest in outdoor activities, including golf, snowboarding, and cycling, and has a passion for travel and wine collecting. These pursuits reflect his appreciation for balance, cultural exploration, and continual personal growth.

Jim holds a Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Economics from Queens University, Kingston, Ontario. His educational foundation complements his extensive practical experience, providing a strong analytical base for his strategic decision-making and operational management.

Known for his powerful interpersonal and communication abilities, Jim excels in complex negotiations, presentations, and stakeholder engagement.  He is equally skilled at navigating intricate financial environments, successfully delivering outstanding results within a P/E environment and clearly articulating strategic visions, thereby ensuring alignment and effective execution across all organizational levels.

With an impressive track record of delivering results, Jim Wood embodies executive leadership marked by strategic foresight, operational excellence, financial prudence, and exceptional team-building capabilities. His career reflects a steadfast commitment to driving growth, enhancing profitability, and leading organizations through transformational change.

Character:

Jim is highly respected for his integrity, resilience, and ability to inspire trust and loyalty among colleagues and stakeholders. His consistent ethical leadership fosters environments where accountability and excellence thrive.

Knowledge:

His deep expertise spans financial analysis, mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and operational management, positioning him as an invaluable asset in corporate growth and restructuring scenarios.

Strategic:

Jim excels at formulating and executing strategic initiatives that significantly enhance business performance and market positioning. He adeptly identifies growth opportunities and navigates complex market conditions to drive sustained profitability.

Communication:

His superior communication skills enable him to articulate compelling visions, mediate complex negotiations, and maintain productive stakeholder relations. His clear, insightful approach significantly enhances organizational alignment and effectiveness.