James Gorman

James P. Gorman is a prominent business executive best known for his role as the Chairman and former CEO of Morgan Stanley, one of the world’s leading financial services firms. Gorman served as CEO from January 2010 to May 2023, during which he oversaw significant growth and transformation of the company. After stepping down as CEO, Gorman continues to serve as the Executive Chairman of Morgan Stanley, providing strategic oversight and guidance.

James Gorman joined Morgan Stanley in 2006 as the Head of Global Wealth Management. He was pivotal in transforming Morgan Stanley's wealth management division, including leading the merger of Morgan Stanley's wealth management business with Smith Barney in 2009. This move created one of the largest wealth management platforms in the world.

In 2010, Gorman became CEO of Morgan Stanley, succeeding John Mack. Under his leadership, the company diversified its revenue streams, strengthened its wealth and asset management businesses, and navigated significant regulatory changes following the 2008 financial crisis. Gorman emphasized a shift toward a more balanced revenue model, reducing reliance on high-risk trading activities.

Outside of Morgan Stanley, Mr. Gorman serves as a Director for The Walt Disney Company, where he chairs its Succession Planning Committee, a Director of the Council on Foreign Relations, Chair of the Board of the Columbia Business School, Trustee of Columbia University, and is a graduate member of the Business Council.

Gorman is known for his disciplined, pragmatic approach to management and his focus on long-term strategic planning. He has been praised for his ability to navigate complex regulatory environments and for fostering innovation within the company. Gorman has been recognized for his contributions to the financial industry, including being named to various lists of influential business leaders. He is also involved in philanthropic activities, particularly in education and healthcare.

Before he joined Morgan Stanley, Mr. Gorman held a succession of executive positions at Merrill Lynch, and prior to this was a senior partner of McKinsey & Co. He began his career as an attorney in Melbourne, Australia.

He formerly served as a Director of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, President of the Federal Advisory Council to the U.S. Federal Reserve Board, Co- Chairman of the Partnership for New York City, Chairman of the Board of the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA), and Co-Chairman of the Business Committee of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Born in Australia, Mr. Gorman received B.A. and law degrees from the University of Melbourne and an M.B.A. degree from Columbia University.

Gorman is celebrated for his analytical approach, long-term vision, and commitment to creating shareholder value. He fostered a culture of collaboration and inclusivity, consistently positioning Morgan Stanley at the forefront of innovation in financial services.