James C. White, Jr.Meet

Where did you grow up?

I was born in, and grew up in, Birmingham. We lived in Montevallo for the bulk of my days. (I add that, as it seems to be an important distinction for some.) When I cut the grass it was done with a tractor and not a lawn mower!

When did you decide on accounting as a career?

I didn’t make the decision until in college. I initially wanted to become an engineer but took Chemistry and destiny led me to take my first accounting class. The path was set after that.

What advice would you give to a smart, driven college student about to enter the “real world”?

Communication in both written and verbal form is paramount in the world in which we reside. I would endeavor at every opportunity to speak in front of groups to obtain the repetitions needed to set the bedrock for an individual to ensure they are capable of expressing themselves efficiently and effectively as it is an invaluable skill.

What prompted you to enter public accounting, instead of another sector?

“James possesses a lovely blend of outof-the-box perspectives derived from a second-generation insider Coupled with his charm and wit, this thought leadership is delivered in ways that produce positive change for our profession.”

- Jon Heath,

As I matriculated, it was always said that your learning curve was steep in public accounting. I always wanted to push myself when I was younger, to test what I thought about myself. I saw public accounting as the best place to do that. It is the crucible of the accounting profession and I wanted to harden myself in the fire.

In the last five years, what new belief, behavior, or habit has most improved your life?

Doing more things in my life that are difficult. This can range from learning a new skill to doing cryotherapy. It’s provided for a clear mind in stressful situations.

What is one of the best or most worthwhile investments of time, money or energy you’ve ever made?

Anything related to my physical health. There is a direct connection between my physical well-being and my ability to manage stress and maintain mental acuity.

When you feel overwhelmed or have lost your focus, how do you rest?

I take a beat. I workout and spend time with my daughter. Family provides the “Why” for me. It allows me to keep things prioritized and in focus.

The partners of Banks, Finley, White & Co. held a gala Friday, June 2, commemorating the firm’s 50 years of practice. It was there where the partners also announced they had admitted Wandalyn P. Wright, CPA and Ebony O’Brien, CPA to the partnership, effective June 1.

Banks, Finley, White & Co. was founded May 26, 1973. It is one of the largest minority-owned firms in the United States and among the top 25% of all CPA firms in America. It has offices in Birmingham, Atlanta, Memphis, and Denver. The firm provides an array of professional services to Fortune 500 companies, state and local governments, colleges and universities, financial institutions, insurances companies, not for profit organizations, healthcare organizations, private businesses and individuals.