James works at the intersection of strategy, design, policy, and technology while leading University-wide programs and initiatives designed to extend U-M’s academic excellence, expand the institution’s public purpose, and foster equity and inclusivity in higher education. He also works on a range of multi-institutional initiatives and advisory councils to help build and sustain a global network for academic innovation.

As Special Advisor to the President for Academic Innovation, James DeVaney collaborates with university leadership to advance the University of Michigan's Vision 2034, particularly in the impact area of Life-Changing Education. James provides strategic counsel to the president on lifelong learning, AI and education, online education, alternative credentials, and workforce development. He also plays a key role in aligning these initiatives with the university’s commitment to academic excellence and creating equitable, lifelong educational opportunities for all.

James also serves as the Founding Executive Director of the Center for Academic Innovation (CAI) and the Associate Vice Provost for Academic Innovation. Under his leadership, the Center has become a driving force for innovation across the university and beyond, positioning U-M as a leader in the global academic innovation network. He leads strategic initiatives that extend the university’s reach through innovative design, technology, and creative solutions. The work he leads at the center aims to create impact, extend academic excellence, and support the institution's financial sustainability. In this role James is also responsible for Michigan Online, U-M’s destination for global, lifelong, and engaged learning.

Throughout his career, James has championed initiatives that transform education to connect and empower learners everywhere, helping them reach their full potential throughout their lives. He is deeply committed to developing programs that not only support students on campus but also extend the University of Michigan’s world-class educational resources to learners globally.

James has a background in strategy and innovation in higher education and advocates for a vision of the future where learning is accessible, transformative, and supports individuals in achieving their goals throughout their lives.

James is a frequent speaker and is a member of the Advisory Councils for Coursera, 2U, and Noodle. He serves on several other national committees related to academic innovation, AI in education, workforce development, and alternative credentials.

Prior to his role at U-M, James co-founded the global education and digital education practices at a leading management consulting firm. He also established the firm’s presence in the MENA region while living in the United Arab Emirates. James has worked with and provided strategic counsel to more than 75 universities in over 15 countries across the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, Australia, and North America. In addition to world-class research universities, James has advised startup colleges and universities, edtech companies, education sector investors, new educational ventures, international branch campuses, government agencies, national libraries, social enterprise organizations, and K-12 focused nonprofit organizations.