Kim James Named Executive Director

The Rotary Club of Nashville, one of the top 10 largest Rotary Clubs in the world, has named Kim James its next executive director. James, who has served as CEO of the Young Leaders Council (YLC) since 2020, succeeds Olivia Leow, who served more than six years in the position, and recently became vice president and director of community engagement with AllianceBernstein Nashville. Caroline Rossini, a longtime Rotary Club leader, has served as interim executive director.

“I am truly excited to step into the role of executive director at Rotary Club of Nashville,” James said. “Rotary’s commitment to service above self is inspiring, and I’m eager to partner with members to strengthen connections, deepen community impact, and continue advancing meaningful work throughout Nashville.”

At the Young Leaders Council, James advanced the organization’s mission to equip and empower emerging leaders to serve effectively on nonprofit boards across the Nashville community. During her tenure, she strengthened YLC’s impact by advancing leadership development, deepening community partnerships, and championing board service as a pathway to meaningful civic engagement.

“Kim is a longstanding leader in the Nashville community, and we are thrilled to have her guiding us as executive director,” said Ken Youngstead, president of the Rotary Club of Nashville. “Her experience and knowledge of the Nashville community will enhance our strong commitment to service — a cornerstone for Rotary — and will position our club for continued success in the future.”

With more than 18 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, community relations, program management, donor engagement, and communications, James has held roles with organizations including Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Bethlehem Centers of Nashville, Tennessee SCORE, Tennessee State University, and the Community Foundation of Central Illinois. Across her career, she has built a reputation for cultivating strong relationships and helping individuals and organizations achieve their goals.

A committed advocate for the nonprofit sector, James serves on the board of directors for the Tennessee Nonprofit Network and is the immediate past board chair of Mending Hearts, in addition to serving on the Truist Bank Community advisory board. In 2024, she was named one of Nashville Business Journal’s Most Admired CEOs and received the Junior League of Nashville’s Paragon Award for Outstanding Community Service. She holds a bachelor’s degree in financial economics from Fisk University and an MBA from Tennessee State University. James is a proud mother of three.