Board Member - James Mai
James Mai was elected as the inaugural Councilmember for District 3 and was subsequently selected by his City Council colleagues to serve as Vice Mayor. His election marks a historic milestone, reflecting Irvine’s rich diversity, as he became the first Vietnamese American to hold elected office in the city.
With over two decades of business leadership, James brings extensive expertise in strategy, innovation, and growth. His career spans a broad range of industries and international markets, earning him a reputation as a dynamic and results-driven entrepreneur. He has successfully launched and managed organizations with a global presence, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in navigating complex and emerging markets.
As Managing Partner of Bristol & Bates, a management consulting firm specializing in business development and technology strategies, James has delivered transformative solutions to organizations worldwide. His proficiency in strategic operations, brand development, marketing, and technology has enabled businesses to scale efficiently and expand their impact. His professional portfolio includes operations across North America, Europe, and Asia, as well as founding an Irvine-based executive search firm in 2004.
A native of Cleveland, Ohio, James pursued his education while advancing his career and traveling both domestically and internationally. He studied at Kent State University and Purdue, later earning Master’s degrees in Corporate Communications and Business Administration.