We're excited to feature @James Thompson as April's Community Member Spotlight!
James brings a unique blend of auditing expertise, entrepreneurship, and innovation, with a career that spans advanced manufacturing, certification, and now building technology-driven solutions for the compliance space. He recently joined Mike on the Exemplar Global podcast to discuss the upcoming changes to the ISO 9001 standard and the future of quality auditing, sharing valuable insights on how technology and evolving expectations are shaping the industry.
Current Position:
Founder & CEO at Concentric Global, headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina (USA). Concentric is currently evolving from a management consulting firm into a business technology company built around its 12 Tools Methodology.
James is also leading the development of a new community platform for compliance-focused organizations and practitioners. Outside of this work, he serves as a technology consultant and adjunct Professor in Business Analytics for the College of Charleston's MBA program.
Professional Background:
James began his Engineering, Quality, and Operational Excellence journey as an intern in 1995 while attending Purdue University, later earning his MBA from The Citadel.
In 2003, he identified an opportunity to serve advanced manufacturing industries, including automotive, aerospace, and medical device supply chains. His Exemplar Global Certified Lead Auditor credential played a key role in launching his consulting career, opening doors to work with certification bodies such as QCB, QMI, and SAI Global, as well as training organizations like ASQ and QMI.
His work has focused on problem solving, course development, production systems, and organizational transformation, with technology and information systems as a consistent foundation. Over time, this has expanded into scaling online certification courses, digital tools, and now an AI-enabled SaaS platform.
Community Engagement:
Community is central to James's work today. The Concentric Community platform is designed around the idea that practitioners learn best from each other, combining LMS, compliance management, and AI tools.
The platform will also include a marketplace where subject matter experts can offer digital products, training, and services. James sees the Exemplar Global Community as a natural place to connect, share knowledge, and support professionals across the global ecosystem.
Advice for Fellow Members:
Two key takeaways:
- Don't treat your credentials as the finish line. They may open doors, but long-term success comes from relationships and continued curiosity.
- Take business development seriously. Many practitioners are trained in technical expertise, but not in selling. Building that skill early can make a significant difference in your career.
Fun Fact:
James is a drummer in multiple bands in Charleston, including a '90s–2000s hip-hop/R&B group called High Society. He also once ran a full marathon (26.2 miles) on a treadmill after his race was canceled due to COVID.
#communitymemberspotlight
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Jamie Gravatte
Community Manager
Exemplar Global
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