James C. Collins is a renowned American researcher, author, speaker, and consultant known for his work on business management, and company sustainability and growth.

He began his academic journey studying Mathematics at Stanford University, where he also earned an MBA. Collins started his professional career as a consultant at McKinsey and later served as a product manager at Hewlett-Packard.

His passion for research and teaching led him to Stanford University's Business School, where he was awarded the Distinguished Teaching Award in 1992. In 1995, Collins founded a management laboratory in Boulder, Colorado, where he continues to conduct research and teach executives.

Beyond academia, Collins has served as a senior executive at CNN International and has collaborated with various social institutions, including Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, the Girl Scouts of the USA, and the United States Marine Corps.

James C. Collins is married to Joanne Ernst, a former triathlete and the 1985 winner of the Ironman competition.