JOHNNIE P. JAMES JR.

PRESIDENT & CEO, LYKES BROS., TAMPA

Founded in 1900 by Howell Tyson Lykes and his seven sons, this company started as a 500-acre operation north of Tampa and has grown to more than 610,000 acres in two states (Florida and Texas), making Lykes the fifth-largest landowner in Florida. Lykes Bros.’ businesses include cattle, citrus, farming leases, forestry, hunting leases, conservation services, and land and water resource management. James has been CEO for more than nine years. He’s involved with the Florida Land Council, the Florida Chamber and the Florida Council of 100, where he’s a supportive voice for the future of agriculture in Florida.

EDUCATION: University of Florida (BS, MA)

FIRST JOB: My first job was with Arthur Andersen & Co. in Houston, Texas, where I began my career in 1982.

DREAM ALTERNATE CAREER: A fly-fishing guide. Trout live in stunning places, so I’d be surrounded by natural beauty every day.

MENTEE IMPACT: Mentorship often begins at home, and I’m proud of the example I’ve set for my daughters. Watching them grow into strong, successful women in business and life, as well as in their roles as wives and mothers, has had the most personal and lasting impact I’ve had as a mentor.

INDUSTRY TREND: Under the leadership of our Agriculture Commissioner, Wilton Simpson, and with the strong support of our legislative leaders, I’m encouraged by the commitment to keep agricultural lands in agriculture and maintain ownership of those lands in the hands of citizens committed to their local communities. I’m also encouraged by the directive to have the state agencies that buy food prioritize buying from Florida producers first. Food is finally being recognized as a state and national security issue, with growing legislation aimed at assisting agriculture’s future success in the face of development pressures, rising inflation and stagnant commodity pricing.