Jim Willis

Professor Jim Willis is a Professor of the Practice and Dr. Dale Martin Fellow at the Wake Forest University School of Business, inspiring future generations in the field of accounting. With over 30 years of experience in the accounting profession, Professor Willis brings a wealth of knowledge and practical expertise to his students. His career has seen him hold various influential positions within the tax departments of several prominent firms, where he honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of the complexities of tax accounting. Before joining the esteemed faculty at Wake Forest, Professor Willis served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Gray Holdings, LLC. In this role, he was instrumental in overseeing the financial operations and strategic planning of the company, demonstrating his adeptness in financial leadership and management. His professional journey is marked by a commitment to excellence and a passion for fostering growth and innovation within the accounting sector. In addition to his extensive industry experience, Professor Willis has also contributed to academia through his teaching endeavors. He has taught graduate tax courses at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he shared his insights and practical knowledge with aspiring accountants. His dual experience in both the professional and academic realms makes him a valuable asset to the Wake Forest University community. Professor Willis holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Master of Taxation from Virginia Commonwealth University. His educational background, combined with his professional accomplishments, positions him as a leading figure in the field of accounting education. At Wake Forest, he continues to inspire and mentor students, preparing them to become the next generation of leaders in the business world.