Jim Schleckser

Dr. Jim Schleckser is an executive advisor, author, and the founder and CEO of The CEO Project. The CEO Project builds advanced advisory groups for CEOs seeking a structured methodology beyond traditional peer groups. The company serves CEOs and high-revenue entrepreneurs, combining peer group meetings with personalized one-on-one coaching sessions led by former CEOs. With three decades of leadership in business strategy, technology businesses, process improvement, organizational development, mergers and acquisitions, engineering, sales, and marketing, Schleckser has experience leading global organizations in both public and private sectors across multiple functional areas.

Schleckser specializes in the challenges faced by fast-growth firms, including business model development, talent management, process optimization, and systems improvement as organizations scale. He and his team work with more than 100 CEOs of high-growth companies to address barriers to organizational success. The CEO Project employs a disciplined approach to deliver strategic thinking and performance, with advisors who are former CEOs of scaled organizations. Schleckser is a member of the Forbes Coaches Council, where he contributes insights on leadership and management.

Schleckser is the author of the book "Great CEOs Are Lazy," which explores behaviors that impact CEO performance and introduces the "Lazy CEO" philosophy, an approach to smart delegation and time management for business leaders. He has also co-authored "Winning the Deal," a book outlining frameworks and tactics for building successful businesses through value creation. Schleckser is a columnist for Inc.com, writing on topics relevant to CEOs and entrepreneurs.

Schleckser's perspectives have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Time, and National Public Radio. His ideas have been translated into nine languages, and he has conducted business in more than 26 countries. He is a speaker at national business conferences and corporate events, focusing on strategies to improve business performance. Schleckser serves on the board of Defenders as chair of Talent & Compensation, and on the boards of Daniel Defense, AltoVista Software, and Youth with a Mission.

In addition to his work in executive leadership, Schleckser is recognized for his expertise in wine and spirits. He is a Certified Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers and holds an advanced certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust. He is the author of "Professional Drinking: A Spirited Guide to Wine, Cocktails and Confident Business Entertaining." Schleckser frequently speaks to business audiences about etiquette, cocktails, and navigating wine lists in professional settings. His combination of business acumen and lifestyle expertise provides value to audiences across industries.