About
James Francis is a Client Portfolio Manager at Guardian Capital Group, based in Atlanta, GA, where he plays a key role in managing and supporting client investment portfolios. His responsibilities include portfolio strategy, client relationship management, and the product management of investment strategies, particularly within Guardian Capital Group and its affiliate, Alta Capital Management. James specializes in equity and multi-asset class portfolios, with a focus on solutions-driven client engagement in institutional and high-net-worth segments.
Prior to joining Guardian Capital in September 2024, James spent over two decades at Montag & Caldwell, where he was Managing Principal and Director of Marketing, overseeing business development and client communications across private and institutional channels. He began his investment career as a Portfolio Strategist at First Union National Bank, deepening his expertise in asset allocation and equity management. His experience spans US equities, growth strategies, and tailored portfolio solutions for diverse investor needs.
James holds an MBA from the University of Georgia's Terry College of Business and a BA in Economics and German from Duquesne University. Recognized for his strategic acumen, James has contributed to the development and promotion of investment strategies that leverage both fundamental analysis and advanced research, supporting client outcomes across evolving market environments.
Career History
| Organization | Role | Date Range | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guardian Capital Group | Client Portfolio Manager | Sep 2024 to Present | — |
| Montag & Caldwell | Managing Principal and Director of Marketing | Jul 2001 to Sep 2024 | Functional roles: Portfolio Specialist, Client Portfolio Manager, Consultant Relations, Investment Committee Member, Portfolio & Market Analyst
Client Relations
•Serve as a conduit between investment... |
| First Union National Bank | Portfolio Strategist | Sep 1998 to Jul 2001 | (Formerly Institutional Investment Specialist & Institutional Sales Partner)
•Presented comprehensive investment reviews to institutional retirement plan clientele, including strategy performance upda... |
| Prudential Securities | Financial Advisor Associate | Jan 1994 to Jan 1998 | •Demonstrated exceptional aptitude in finance and investments while still in undergraduate studies at Duquesne University, earning the Series 7 and 63 certifications and immediately diving into meanin... |
Education
University of Georgia - Terry College of Business
Master of Business Administration - MBA
2011 — 2013
Duquesne University
Bachelor of Arts - BA, Economics and German
1992 — 1996
Skills & Expertise
Others at Guardian Capital LP (1)
| Name | Role | Location |
|---|---|---|
T Thierry Di Nallo | Vice President, Portfolio Manager | United States |