Jim Hemak

Retired
JA Inc

Laureate 2025

Jim’s first experience with JA came as an Achiever in the Minneapolis JA Company Program. His professional history began in 1971 when he was hired as Executive Director for JA Eastern Indiana (Richmond). In 1973, Jim was promoted to Assistant Regional Vice President for the Midwest Region. Jim was later named as the President of JA Greater Puget Sound (Seattle),

During his six years in Seattle, Jim grew the JA Area from 32nd to the 11th largest while developing the most financially solid large JA area in the country. He was the youngest professional ever to lead a major market.

In 1981, Karl Flemke hired Jim to the position of National Vice President – Western Region. Jim remained in that position until his retirement from JA in 1987. During his tenure as National Vice President, Jim demonstrated a level of ethics and integrity and was highly respected by the presidents in his region and around the country. He was known for getting results, which is evident from his rise to be president of a major metro market after only four years.

After Jim’s JA retirement, he became a very successful entrepreneur. With limited resources, he grew his start up Great Clips business to serve over 1,000,000 customers per year in 39 locations becoming their largest franchisee. He was named charter member of the Great Clips Hall of Fame. Today, Great Clips is the nation's largest hair care company.

Having uniquely served as a JA professional staff member and dedicated board member after leaving the organization, Jim was awarded the Gold Leadership Award in 2016 and the National Centennial Leadership Award in 2019.

Currently, Jim serves on the JA North Foundation board, is secretary and a founder of the JA USA Foundation board, and president of the Achievement Foundation.