James Elder
Vice President and General Manager, Rapid Solutions
Jacobs
Jim Elder is Vice President and General Manager of Jacobs Rapid Solutions. Rapid Solutions provides differentiated-technology solutions focused on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) satellite and airborne payload development, exceptionally high-density microelectronics packaging, tactical systems production, and aerial digital mapping to US and allied partner nations and state, local, and commercial clients.
Previously, Jim served as Division Vice President and Deputy General Manager of Jacobs Global Defense Solutions, supporting a large and diverse Research, Development, Testing and Evaluation (RDT&E) and software development portfolio for Department of Defense clients. He also led high-performing Business Development teams responsible for significant growth in strategic market areas.
Prior to Jacobs, Jim held operations and business leadership roles focused on ISR and special mission aircraft production, integration, and operations for defense, intelligence, and federal law enforcement missions.
Jim received master’s and bachelor’s degrees in business administration from Mississippi State University.