Former RNC Chairman, Ambassador to the Vatican and Department of Veterans Affairs Cabinet Secretary. Applies sound business and political judgment and strong relationships to advance good public policy. Honest broker trusted by policymakers and clients alike.
Jim Nicholson served as Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, as U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican and as Chairman of the Republican National Committee. Now, he counsels clients on policy matters related to veterans affairs, information technology, infrastructure, health care and complex international relations issues. Sec. Nicholson is profoundly respected by policymakers on both sides of the aisle in Washington, D.C. for his competence, candor and integrity. His personal relationships and friendships extend from the highest ranking officials in leadership to working level staff people throughout the government in Washington.
In the 1980’s, Secretary Nicholson was appointed by President Reagan to serve as a director of the New Community Development Corporation, and as a Commissioner on the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services.
While serving as U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican, Sec. Nicholson was knighted by Pope John Paul II for his work on human rights’ issues in Europe, especially in the area of human trafficking. As Secretary of the VA, Nicholson also chaired the Federal Interagency Council on Homelessness. Prior to his heavy involvement in governmental service, Nicholson had a successful career in law and business. He established a nationally recognized land development and homebuilding company and was inducted into the National Housing Hall of Fame.
In 2019, Jim was appointed by President Trump to the Board of Visitors at his alma matter West Point, and he was subsequently elected vice chair. He also currently serves as a Fellow at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.