George James,

George James is a seasoned Financial Advisor with Raymond James, based in Mesa, Arizona. With over 29 years of industry experience, he specializes in guiding individuals and small businesses through the complexities of wealth planning, management, preservation and distribution, with a particular focus on retirement planning and risk strategies. George believes his objective approach helps ensure clients are well-positioned to seek their financial goals. He strives to earn his clients’ trust through honesty. He believes these are qualities his clients value most.

Originally from Chicago, Illinois, George holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Northeastern Illinois University (1987-1990), following studies at the University of Illinois at Chicago (1984-1987) and Notre Dame High School in Niles, Illinois (1980-1984). His professional credentials include the Retirement Income Certified Professional® (RICP®) designation, the Columbia University Credentialed Holistic Financial Coach program, and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania Retirement Planning Specialist program.

Before joining Southwest Wealth Strategies in 2013, George served as a Financial Consultant at AXA Advisors, LLC, from 1985 to 2013, where he honed his expertise in financial advising and insurance planning. His daily work involves helping clients navigate the ever-changing landscape of investments, insurance and retirement challenges, particularly those nearing retirement age. George’s goal is to educate clients on risk management and provide tailored strategies to help meet their unique objectives, significantly impacting their financial well-being.

George believes what sets him apart is his commitment to integrity, quality customer service and his extensive experience, which allow him to deliver personalized strategies with a client-first mindset. Outside of work, George is deeply involved in his community as the President of Every Kid Counts, a children’s charity serving Arizona families for over 30 years. In his free time, he enjoys golfing, playing softball, traveling and music. George resides in Mesa with his partner, Lesa, and cherishes spending time with his two daughters, Brenna and Hailey.