"If you don't know your numbers, you don't know your business." - Marcus Lemonis
Jim Downes, CPA, CTP, is a veteran Chief Financial Officer (CFO) services advisor, who has supported business owners and management teams for over 20 years. He has served more than 200 companies, where he specialized in fractional CFO services and turnaround consulting.
Jim currently works across middle-market and privately held businesses in industries such as food and beverage, logistics, construction and professional services.
Jim founded Blueprint CFO, which joined GHJ in 2025, and he continues to deliver leading CFO services across clients. His background also includes experience at a top 20 professional services firm and an international turnaround consulting firm.
Jim is both a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and nationally Certified Turnaround Professional (CTP). He has completed training to become a Professional Implementer of the Entrepreneur’s Operating System (EOS). Jim is also certified in Revenue Science and the Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO) Thinking methodology through training with the Revenue Game LLC.
Jim is the host of the “Future Focused Entrepreneurs” podcast series. He is also a member of the AICPA and Association for Corporate Growth (ACG). Jim attended the University of Detroit Mercy, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in accounting and marketing.
What is your favorite part of working at GHJ?
I really enjoy the camaraderie I have with colleagues at GHJ.
What do you enjoy most about working with clients?
As a financial partner to businesses, it is rewarding to help clients achieve their business and financial goals.
What value-add do you bring to clients?
Sometimes, entrepreneurs do not have the chance to dive into the details of their financial statements. I help them by illustrating what their numbers say about their business.
What issues in the community do you care most about?
I support causes that fight homelessness and domestic abuse. I also volunteer with Habitat for Humanity.
What is your proudest professional moment, and why?
There have been many but helping my first fractional CFO client win the “Entrepreneur of the Year Award" and grow his business to $50 million with above average profitability was among my most proud moments.
Areas of Expertise
Fun Facts
Favorite place in the world:
Anywhere in Italy
Favorite music/band/singer:
Coldplay
Favorite movie of all time:
The Godfather
One word that best describes me:
Unique
When I am not working, you will catch me doing this:
Working out, riding my bike and traveling the world
