Jim is a founder and partner of Capalino Ventures, where he lends his experience of more than 50 years in real estate, construction and politics to clients.  Jim also founded Capalino, one of the nation’s premier government relations and strategic consulting practices. His experience and networks have allowed him to bring success to development and real estate clients, which he continues to do at Capalino Ventures.

Among his successes are some of the biggest projects in local history, including The High Line, Guggenheim, MetroTech, St. Vincent’s, West Side Rail Yards and the rezoning of Coney Island and West Harlem.

Jim’s government career began in 1972 when he joined the staff of Congressman Edward I. Koch. In 1977, he co-managed the mayoral campaign of Congressman Koch when he was elected the 105th Mayor of the City of New York. Jim was named Commissioner of General Services, a 2,000+ employee, $750 million agency, at the age of 28 and is still the youngest commissioner in City history. Jim oversaw the Mayor’s successful third term re-election, which he won by the largest margin in the City’s history.

Jim holds an M.A. in Management and Urban Affairs from the New School University, and a B.A. in Political Science, cum laude, from Colgate University. He and his wife of 38 years have 3 children and three grandchildren, and reside in Manhattan.

Jim has received numerous awards and honors, including City&State’s Power 100 List; 50 Over Fifty Awards; Responsible 100 Awards; the Human Services Council (HSC); Zoning Advisory Council; and the Lewis Rudin Award for Civic Leadership from Coro New York.