James Smith

James Smith

U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM)
Former Acquisition Executive,
UPCOMING EVENT
2024 Munitions Executive Summit
Bio

Jim Smith is the former Acquisition Executive for the United States Special Operations Command where he managed over $6 billion annually in support of global special operations. He has over 30 years of experience in government acquisition and is committed to a robust industrial base and vibrant technology sector in support of our national defense.

Jim served as an infantry officer in multiple leadership positions before transitioning to Army acquisition where he led the development, procurement and fielding of state-of-the-art technologies culminating with his assignment as a Program Executive Officer. Following 27 years as an Army officer, he was appointed to the Senior Executive Service and served for an additional ten years in Special Operations Command.

He has been recognized for his acquisition proficiency by the Presidential Rank Award and the Joint Distinguished Civilian Service Medal. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the United States Military Academy, and a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University, as well as a master’s in Strategic Studies from the Army War College.

Jim enjoys hiking, biking, and swimming with his wife, Lori, from their basecamp in Tampa, Florida, and visiting their children in New York and Texas.