TAMPA — On Oct. 28, Lykes Bros. Inc. announced that President, Chief Executive Officer and Board Member Johnnie P. James Jr. will retire following a distinguished career marked by exceptional leadership, strategic vision and a steadfast commitment to preserving and strengthening one of Florida’s oldest family-owned enterprises.

James will continue to serve in his current role until a successor is appointed and will work closely with the board and leadership team to ensure a seamless transition.

Since joining Lykes as an independent member of its board of directors in 2018 and assuming the role of president and CEO in 2019, James has played a pivotal role in guiding the sixth-generation family-owned company through a period of strategic growth and transformation. Drawing on more than three decades of leadership experience in public accounting, agriculture, transportation and wealth management, he helped position Lykes for long-term success while advancing new business opportunities and strengthening the company’s legacy as a leader in Florida agriculture and land stewardship.

“Johnnie’s leadership has made a great positive lasting impact on Lykes,” said Christopher M. Carrere, chair of the board of directors, Lykes Bros. Inc. “He brought a unique combination of business acumen, strategic thinking and deep appreciation for our company’s heritage. Under his guidance, Lykes strengthened its foundation while embracing new opportunities for growth. We are immensely grateful for his service and dedication.”

Before assuming the role of president and CEO in July 2019, James built a successful career that included serving as a tax partner with national accounting firms KPMG and RSM, advising large agricultural family businesses throughout the Southeast. He also held executive leadership positions as president of Resource Consulting Group, an integrated wealth management firm; chief operating officer of Oakley Transport Group; and Eastern Region leader for RSM McGladrey.

“It has been an honor to lead Lykes and work alongside an extraordinary Board, leadership team and employees who care deeply about this company and its future,” James said. “Lykes has a remarkable history, strong values and tremendous opportunities ahead. I am confident the company is well-positioned for continued success, and I look forward to supporting a smooth leadership transition.”

Beyond his service to Lykes, James has been an influential leader across Florida’s business and agricultural communities earning him recognition in Florida Trend’s Florida 500 and the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s Power 100, two distinguished rankings that honor Florida’s most influential business and community leaders. He currently serves on the Florida Chamber Board, where he chairs the Political Committee and serves on the Policy Committee; and on the Florida Land Council, where he serves as vice chair and as a member of the executive committee. He served for several years on the Board of Florida’s Natural Growers. 

To support this leadership transition, Lykes has engaged The Goodwin Group, a nationally recognized executive search and leadership consulting firm, to lead the search for Lykes' next CEO. The firm will work closely with the board of directors to identify a visionary leader who can build on the company's legacy while advancing the company's strategic priorities and positioning Lykes for continued long-term success.

“Lykes has never been stronger, and we are confident that in partnership with The Goodwin Group we will find an outstanding leader to guide the company into its next chapter,” said Carrere. “We remain committed to our values, our people and our mission as we continue building on the legacy that has defined Lykes for generations.”