James Mai was elected as the inaugural Councilmember for District 3 and was subsequently selected by his City Council colleagues to serve as Vice Mayor. His election marked a historic milestone reflecting Irvine’s rich diversity, as he became the first Vietnamese American to hold elected office in the City.

With over two decades of business leadership, James brings extensive experience in strategy, innovation, and growth. His career spans a broad range of industries and international markets. He has successfully launched and managed organizations with a global presence, demonstrating resilience and adaptability while navigating complex and emerging markets.

As Managing Partner of Bristol & Bates, a management consulting firm specializing in business development and technology strategies, James has delivered solutions to organizations worldwide. His experience in strategic operations, brand development, marketing, and technology has helped businesses scale efficiently and expand their impact. His professional portfolio includes operations across North America, Europe, and Asia, as well as founding an Irvine-based executive search firm in 2004.

A native of Cleveland, Ohio, James has continued his education throughout nearly three decades of experience in business, nonprofit leadership, and public service. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History and a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from the University of Maine at Presque Isle. He also holds an MBA and a Master’s degree in Communications. His academic background complements a career focused on strategy, governance, organizational leadership, and public service.

Beyond his professional endeavors, James is deeply committed to community service. He is an advocate for children’s rights, free speech, anti-discrimination initiatives, and food security programs. Over the years, he has held leadership positions on numerous nonprofit boards and served as chairman of community-focused organizations throughout Orange County and Irvine.

James’s philanthropic work has focused on underserved communities, particularly children and individuals with special needs. As the founder of several 501(c)(3) organizations, he has supported initiatives addressing hunger, poverty, and access to critical resources for families. His charitable efforts have raised millions of dollars and provided assistance to hundreds of families each month throughout Irvine and Orange County.

James serves as Vice Chairman of the Orange County Power Authority and as a board member for several organizations serving Irvine and the greater Orange County region, including the Great Park, Irvine Barclay Theatre, and Irvine Community Land Trust. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the League of California Cities, Orange County Division, and as a Board Member and Chairman of Economic Development and Tourism for the Association of California Cities – Orange County (ACC-OC).

A proud resident of Irvine for 26 years, James has lived in District 3 for over 15 years. He values time with his wife and their two sons, ages 7 and 15, who attend schools in the Irvine Unified School District. Together, they embrace Irvine’s cultural richness and enjoy its renowned parks and open spaces.