60James Burleson (jamesburleson)
Joined 4 weeks ago from Petaluma, California, United States
James Burleson has spent more than three decades shaping a career that brings together finance, entrepreneurship, and community involvement. Over the years, he has built businesses, guided investments, and supported ventures that emphasize both growth and long-term purpose. His professional achievements have always gone hand in hand with philanthropy and service, making his work a balance of leadership, innovation, and responsibility.
His interest in financial markets began early in life. At the age of 24, he became one of the youngest individuals to hold a seat and serve as a market maker on the Pacific Stock Exchange. His leadership qualities were quickly recognized, and he was elected as the youngest Chair of the Nominating Committee for the Board of Governors. These early milestones distinguished him in a competitive industry and set the stage for future accomplishments. James later held senior positions at well-known firms, including Letco LMM, Joseph D. Heard Jr. Inc., Premier Trading Group, and Charles Schwab. While serving as a Partner and Lead Market Maker at Letco, he contributed to the firm’s growth until it was acquired by Toronto Dominion Bank in 2002. His expertise in derivatives and trading strategies became central to his career, laying the foundation for his later entrepreneurial endeavors.
In 2004, he founded Burleson + Company, an advisory firm that grew to manage nearly $800 million in assets under management. The firm became known for its focus on wealth management and financial planning, combining traditional investment approaches with strategies aimed at aligning money with long-term life goals. His entrepreneurial vision extended further with Northern Peak Consulting, where he offered guidance on growth and strategy to both individuals and businesses. He also established BCo Venture Fund I, which invested in early-stage companies. One highlight was the fund’s investment in Pathwater, a sustainable bottled water brand that challenged industry norms and promoted environmentally conscious consumer choices.
Service and community leadership have always been central to his identity. For nearly two decades, James has been part of the Sonoma–Marin Fair Board, supporting education, agriculture, and youth programs. He also spent more than ten years with the Rotary Club of Petaluma, serving as Treasurer of its foundation. His dedication continued through more than twenty years of service on the St. Vincent Parish Finance Committee and membership on the Board of St. Vincent High School. In addition, he has supported organizations such as the Petaluma Educational Foundation, Boys and Girls Club, and Polly Klaas Foundation over the past 25 years.
Raised in a military family, he developed a strong sense of discipline, adaptability, and a commitment to service. After completing a finance degree at the University of Texas at Austin, he maintained close ties with both his university and his fraternity, Sigma Chi. Away from professional commitments, he enjoys skiing with his children, golfing in the Utah mountains, traveling, and continuing to follow the stock market.
James Burleson’s journey illustrates how expertise and leadership can be paired with service and family values. His career reflects consistent growth in finance and entrepreneurship while showing a lifelong dedication to building stronger communities and honoring meaningful traditions.