James Fulton, MBA – Founder, Fractional CFO/COO, Author, Speaker, and Nonprofit and Small Business Strategist
James Fulton is a nationally recognized financial and operational consultant, fractional CFO/COO, and trusted advisor to nonprofit leaders, charter school executives, and small business owners. With more than 20 years of experience spanning C-suite leadership, executive coaching, financial turnaround strategy, and grant compliance, James brings a rare blend of fiscal discipline and visionary insight to every engagement.
James is the founder of Fulton Consulting Agency and J.J. Fulton Companies, where he provides comprehensive services in financial strategy, operational efficiency, grant management, audit readiness, risk mitigation, and organizational development. He has helped dozens of organizations stabilize operations, scale programs, secure funding, and improve their long-term financial health.
A former CEO, CFO, and COO for prominent charter school management organizations, James oversaw multimillion-dollar budgets and was responsible for all operational functions, including finance, HR, IT, facilities, and transportation. His leadership played a key role in transforming struggling schools into high-performing, financially sound institutions. He has led organizations through state audits, federal compliance reviews, and high-stakes turnarounds while building strong cultures of accountability and strategic alignment.
James is also a sought-after executive coach and speaker, known for his clear, actionable insights and real-world experience. He regularly trains emerging COOs and CFOs and serves as a mentor to rising leaders navigating the challenges of executive leadership. His expertise extends to helping organizations establish internal controls, design performance management systems, and restructure staffing models for greater efficiency.
As an accomplished author, James has published over 400 books, including bestsellers such as The Nonprofit CFO Playbook and The Nonprofit Grant Writing Playbook. His catalog spans nonprofit finance, executive leadership, small business growth, government contracting, digital publishing, personal transformation, and health and wellness. He is also the founder of multiple self-paced courses and coaching programs that support entrepreneurs, educators, and nonprofit professionals.
James holds an MBA and is known for his deep commitment to mission-driven work. He is frequently called upon by foundations, charter networks, local governments, and universities to provide strategic consulting, facilitate workshops, and lead turnaround initiatives. He has also supported clients in securing government contracts, submitting competitive grant proposals, and rebuilding financial infrastructure from the ground up.
Whether working with a grassroots nonprofit, a high-growth charter school, or a solopreneur looking to scale, James Fulton remains passionate about empowering leaders to operate with clarity, integrity, and impact. He believes every mission-driven organization deserves world-class financial and operational expertise—without the burden of full-time executive costs.
In his personal life, James is a husband, father of three, and a former college basketball player who brings teamwork, resilience, and discipline into every aspect of his work. He continues to write, speak, and consult with organizations across the country.