Jim Norfleet, practice leader and senior consultant with Spelman Johnson, spearheads the firm’s thriving diversity, equity, and inclusion practice and is a valued partner in searches for chief executives and senior leaders across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Jim is dedicated to recruiting exceptional leaders for organizations that improve lives and make a difference in the world. His executive experience, cross-sector networks, and expertise in sourcing talent and delivering top-notch candidates provide tremendous value to his clients. His strategic approach and engaging, collaborative style define his practice and lead to successful searches and long-term relationships with clients and candidates.
Leading organizations toward inclusive excellence and mission fulfillment has been a cornerstone of Jim’s professional life. A longtime civic leader and champion of social justice, Jim’s formative experiences in his hometown near New York City set him on a path to fighting injustice, working primarily within the realms of education and community service to bring about positive change. Before joining Spelman Johnson, Jim served as vice president for student affairs at The College of New Jersey, where he managed a $60 million budget and a broad portfolio of programs, services, and facilities. At California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, where he has been honored with emeritus status, Jim served as associate vice president for student services, executive director of educational equity services, and founding director of the Renaissance Scholars program for former foster youth. Earlier in his career, he held positions in academic administration and student life at Nyack College and Pace University, both located in New York.
Jim has served as an independent consultant to mission-driven organizations and as an adviser to boards, CEOs, and leaders across the career spectrum. Jim is an immediate past co-chair of the American Council on Education (ACE) Executive Search Roundtable and is active in an array of professional and civic organizations. He speaks on higher education and social justice issues and has received numerous awards for his leadership, advocacy, and community service.