Former PE-backed CEO with Deep Experience in Manufacturing and Growth Strategies

Alix James is an independent business advisor leveraging decades of executive leadership experience to help business founders and leaders solve business challenges, develop their team, and create lasting value. She specializes in strategies to scale companies and dominate markets, often by creating unique, “hard-to-imitate” products that foster intense brand loyalty. She is also adept at developing direct-to-consumer strategies for niche end-user segments and cultivating company cultures that inspire innovation and growth. As a Certified Exit Planning Advisor®, she also is skilled in helping business owners build to a successful exit. As the former CEO of Nielsen-Kellerman, a private-equity backed manufacturer of multiple brands in sports performance, weather, and environmental markets, Alix demonstrated exceptional leadership and business acumen. She scaled the organization from a family-owned basement business to a multi-site, global player, increasing revenue and employee count by 15 times. During her tenure, Alix led NK through two rounds of private-equity backing and spearheaded successful acquisition strategies. Under her guidance, NK gained regional and national recognition as an exemplary US lean manufacturer, a leading exporter, a master of omnichannel and e-commerce strategies, and a top workplace.

Board Experience

  • Assoc. for Corporate Growth ACG Philadelphia
  • West Catholic Preparatory High School
  • Delaware Valley Combined Training Assoc.
  • Wilmington Rowing Center
  • Vesper Rowing Club

Professional Accolades

  • JD, CEPA®
  • Lean Manufacturing Champion Level I & II
  • EY Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year EoY Regional Finalist 2014 & 2016
  • Smart CEO Future 50 CEO Award
  • Philadelphia Business Journal Woman of Distinction
  • White House Champion of Change