Aerotropolis Real Estate Update

A native of Albany, GA, Shannon W. James Sr. received a full Men’s Basketball scholarship to Valdosta State University. While in undergrad, he became Polemarch of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc and active member in Students In Free Enterprise. He would obtain his Bachelor of Business Administration in both Management & Marketing in 2004. Immediately post undergrad, he would begin his 15yr career in banking starting as a part-time teller and customer service representative. He would soon become the first African-American accepted into the Park Avenue Bank Management Trainee Program in 2005. Upon MTP graduation, James would be promoted to Jr. Commercial Lender in the Gwinnett County market and later Special Assets & OREO, Banking Officer during the great recession (2008-2011). In 2011, Mr. James accepted a position with SunTrust Bank as VP, Commercial Banking. He would be recognized in both 2012 and 2013 as a Platinum Performance Award Winner for the Diversified Commercial Division for both new commercial loan and deposit portfolio growth. He entered a new challenge in 2017, by accepting a role with Branch Banking & Trust as Vice President of Commercial Banking serving Middle Markets. During this time, James would serve as Chairman of Investor/Finance Committee for Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance (AeroATL) and Chief Financial Officer for South Fulton Chamber Of Commerce, where he received Board Member of the Year. In 2018, AeroATL leadership would unanimously elect him as Chairman of the Board of Directors and later to his current role as President and CEO. He currently leads the non-profit mission to serve as a catalyst for regional economic competitiveness in the Aerotropolis region and vision of creating a world- class destination for all those who live, learn, work and play in the Aerotropolis. Under James leadership, the organization has created a 501(c)(3), received numerous awards and considered a change agent for the region. In 2021 and 2022, Mr. James was honored by Atlanta Magazine as a Top 500 Most Powerful Leader in Metro Atlanta. He currently serves as Secretary for ATL Airport Community Improvement Districts, Advisory Board Member for LISC Atlanta, Clayton State University College of Business, Bisnow, Clayton County Public Schools and Head Basketball Coach for his son’s 14U AAU Team. A committed husband and father of three, James attributes much of his foundation to the skills and knowledge he received while attending the Boys and Girls Clubs of America in Albany, GA. A former Youth of the Year, James credits the program for providing much needed community resources like mentors, structure, and hope.