James Allen

James "Jimmy" Allen leads Bain’s Global CEO Forum, a network of over 3,000 global leaders focused on the hard-earned lessons of sustainable growth, talent, and frontline leadership. He founded the firm's Sales & Marketing practice, is the former leader of our global Strategy practice, and has served two terms on Bain's board of directors.

Jimmy is a career advisor to global CEOs and founders. He co-authored multiple books, including Profit from the Core and The Founder’s Mentality, global bestsellers that explore enduring, profitable growth, scale insurgency, and leadership – all grounded in energy, purpose, commitment, and simplicity.

During his 35+ years at Bain & Company, Jimmy has advised hundreds of founder-led and incumbent companies across 20+ industries and geographies. He is currently developing The Founder’s Mentality: The CEO Sessions, a podcast about leadership and legacy that highlights lessons and stories from bold CEOs as well as artists, entrepreneurs, and community builders from outside the boardroom.

Jimmy frequently writes about scale, simplicity, and the human side of leadership. His work has been featured in publications like Harvard Business Review and Forbes. He has spoken at the World Economic Forum and regularly keynotes corporate and industry conferences globally.

Beyond Bain, Jimmy owns his own record label, Abubilla Music, and co-founded Singing Wells, a project dedicated to preserving Kenyan village music.

Jimmy is married and lives in London, as do his three adult children.