James L. Johnson, Jr.

Background

James L. Johnson, Jr. is a data analytics leader, educator, consultant and military veteran with more than 22 years of leadership experience spanning military, government, healthcare and private‑sector environments. He currently serves as a Data Analyst III supporting Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina and is the Founder and Principal Consultant of Champion Analytics & Leadership Consulting, LLC, where he helps organizations leverage data, analytics and leadership principles to improve decision‑making and organizational performance. Johnson also serves as an analytics instructor, developing and delivering training in business intelligence, data visualization and data‑driven decision‑making.

He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in computer science from Troy University, a Master of Science in business analytics and a post‑graduate certificate in business analytics from the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business, and a Master of Science in leadership from South University. His professional credentials include the Associate Certified Analytics Professional (aCAP), Microsoft Office certifications in Excel, Word and SharePoint, and the Department of Defense Financial Management Certification Level III.

Before transitioning into civilian analytics leadership, Johnson served in the United States Army Finance Corps, retiring at the rank of Master Sergeant after more than two decades of service. His leadership assignments included first sergeant, detachment sergeant and platoon leader, where he led small and medium‑sized teams in complex operational environments. He also served as a diplomat assigned to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, supporting international and interagency operations.

As a DBA scholar, Johnson aims to bridge the gap between academic research and business practice through consulting, executive education and thought leadership. His long‑term goal is to expand Champion Analytics & Leadership Consulting, LLC into a premier organization for analytics education, leadership development and strategic decision‑support services while helping organizations make smarter, data‑informed decisions.

Research Interest

Johnson’s research interests focus on the intersection of data analytics, leadership and organizational decision‑making. He is particularly interested in developing practical, evidence‑based frameworks that help leaders use analytics to improve workforce performance, organizational adaptability and strategic execution. His work explores how organizations can transform data into actionable intelligence and how leadership practices influence the successful adoption of analytics‑driven decision‑making. By combining practitioner experience with applied research, he seeks to create solutions that deliver measurable organizational value.