Overview
James Watson serves as Chief Solutions Officer at CLA, where he leads the firm’s enterprise-wide digital transformation through the Solutions Master Plan — a bold, $500 million investment in AI, data, and human-centered innovation. Based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, James oversees a diverse team of leaders across digital, data, operations, and service delivery, driving CLA’s mission to know and help clients through smarter, faster, and more personalized solutions.
A CPA by training and a strategist by nature, James is known for championing high-tech/high-touch approaches that eliminate inefficiencies like manual data entry and compliance compression, while elevating client experience and advisory impact. His leadership has helped CLA proactively identify thousands of client needs, sunset legacy systems, and democratize AI across the firm.
James is a member of CLA’s executive team. He collaborates across functions to integrate AI with human intelligence, positioning CLA as a leader in agile, data-powered professional services. He is also a key voice in CLA’s internal communications, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, career growth, and the firm’s enduring promise to deliver impeccable client service.
Education
Temple University B.B.A.,Finance (Accounting concentration)
In the community
Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA); National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), Corporate Advisory Board member; Treasurer, Boy Scouts of America Troop 31