James G. Ellis

Director

Jim Ellis served as the Dean of the Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California, from April 2007 until June 2019. Prior to being appointed Dean, he was the Vice Provost, Globalization, for the University, responsible for building the USC name worldwide. He retired as a Professor of Marketing, a position he held for twenty- five years, in July 2021. 

Holding an MBA degree from the Harvard University and a BBA degree from the University of New Mexico, Mr. Ellis served as President/CEO of Porsche Design, a high- end accessories company owned by Europe’s Porsche family. Additionally, he was CEO of Port O’Call Pasadena, a high–end home accessory chain, and owner/ partner in six other companies, during his twenty–seven–year business career. 

Ellis sits on numerous corporate boards of directors, of both public and private companies, continuing direct involvement in the business arena. He has been a member of the Young Presidents Organization since 1986, where he served on its international board. Additionally, he was a member of Chief Executives Organization, and on that international board as well. He also serves on the Board of the Rose Hills Foundation, a charitable organization, and of the University of New Mexico Foundation board. 

He has addressed many organizations around the world on various business topics. At USC, he was awarded both the “Teaching Has No Boundaries” award, given by the faculty, and the Golden Apple Award, given by the students. Additionally, he received the Outstanding Teaching and Mentoring Award from the USC Parents‘ Association. 

Jim and his wife Gail have five adult children–three of whom are married–and ten grandchildren.