Jim Tompkins

About Jim Tompkins

Dr. James A. Tompkins is an international authority on designing and implementing end-to-end supply chains. Jim is an entrepreneur and Chairman of 5 companies. Over his 50-year career, he has founded 15 businesses that have generated over $2 billion in revenue. Jim is known for- His depth of experience that allows him to have insight into the future- His ability to focus on what really matters and to deliver impactful results- His deep expertise in operations and technology, with a focus on deploying consequential AI- His passion to help people and help organizations achieve their full potential. In April 2020, he founded Tompkins Ventures, a global hands-on solutions ecosystem that helps executive teams transform challenges in Capital, Digital Enablement, Supply Chain, Organizational Development and Procurement into competitive advantage. In August 2025 he returned as Chairman of Tompkins Solutions, the firm he originally started in 1975.Jim earned his Bachelor of Science, Master of Science and Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University, where he is recognized as a Distinguished Engineering Alumnus. He is the recipient of the prestigious Frank and Lillian Gilbreath Award from the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers. He has written 31 books, more than articles and blogs, delivered more than live presentations and appeared on more than 500 podcasts. Jim has been married for 57 years and is the proud father of 3 children and grandfather of 8.

Experience

1. Chairman

   Tompkins Solutions

   Oct 2025 — Present · Raleigh, NC, US

Education

• Purdue University

  BS, MS, Ph.D., Industrial Engineering

  1966 — 1972

Skills

• Supply Chain Management
• Strategic Sourcing
• Network Planning
• Supply Chain
• Industrial Engineering
• Logistics Outsourcing
• Outsourcing
• Network Design
• Thought Leadership
• Supply Chain Engineering
• Warehouse Management Systems
• Demand Planning
• 3pl
• Demand-Driven Supply Chains
• Strategy
• Material Handling Equipment
• Operations Management
• Transportation
• Management
• Material Handling
• Reverse Logistics
• Distribution Center Operations
• Supply Chain Planning
• Forecasting
• Continuous Improvement
• Manufacturing
• Warehousing
• Six Sigma
• Inventory Management
• Transportation Management
• Operational Excellence
• Process Improvement
• Leadership
• Process Engineering
• Multi-Channel Retail
• Business Strategy
• Distribution Strategies
• Logistics Management
• Warehouse Management
• Procurement