“The MJ2 Brand has been a vital part of my life long before my first days working here. I have had the pleasure of watching this brand transform from a mere idea to the flourishing successful business it now is. I remember being in middle school and hearing my mom discuss her ideas with my father, who was the CEO and owner of Fireproof Records at the time. I was fascinated by their discussions about growing and building businesses, even though it might as well have been a foreign language to me at the time. These formative years of listening to my parents, which I did not know at the time, were the foundation of my business education. 

As my life progressed and I watched MJ2 grow, sports became the center point of my life. My father introduced me to the game of lacrosse at a young age. If I had an ounce of free time, I would be outside playing Lacrosse. I was completely obsessed with the game, and in many ways I still am. I channeled this obsession to becoming the best player I possibly could. It was not always fun, and it was not always easy, but it was the most rewarding journey of my life.  

I was lucky enough to be able to chase this dream all the way to Baltimore, Maryland, where I played for 5 years at Loyola University Maryland. Alongside my Lacrosse career, I found a passion for business. I acquired an MBA with my undergrad focused in none other than Marketing. My education at Loyola was extremely important, but it would not have been as valuable if I had not gotten the business education from my parents.  

As I embark on this journey as Business Development Manager, I love that MJ2 allows me to help other businesses be successful. The culture at MJ2, along with the deep-rooted community involvement were what attracted me to work here after my schooling. But above those, I was captivated by the idea of a client-first business approach. MJ2 is not successful unless its clients are. That was the competitive advantage that drove me to work here. As I learned in sports, the team is the most important thing. At MJ2, our team is our clients. When they win, we win.”

Q&A with Evan James 

What is your favorite thing about working at MJ2? 

My favorite part about working at MJ2 is being able to help amplify brands’ social media and digital presence. Being the bridge between our clients and the clouded digital world is a fun and rewarding process.  

If you could trade skills for a day with another MJ2 team member, who would it be and why? 

Andrew Bash. Andrew is the engine of MJ2, a web development guru with a knack for problem solving. I have known Andrew for a long time, and he has grown up alongside the company.  

What are your top 3 favorite Columbus-based companies? 

BrewDog – originally a Scottish company but the US headquarters is here in Columbus! 

Rebol – Go-to lunch spot in Bridge Park.  

Bruegger’s Bagels and Katalina’s have amazing breakfast also! 

What is your favorite relaxing activity? 

My form of relaxing usually takes place on the golf course or on a run. When I do find time to sit down, I love watching any competitive sports.  

What are you currently reading? 

Grit by Angela Duckworth. 

What is your motto or personal mantra? 

Fear is a mile long and an inch deep.  

How do you take your coffee? 

Cold Brew all year around.  

If you were a baseball player, what song would you walk out to? 

Rockstar – Nickelback 

What is your favorite restaurant in Columbus? 

Columbus has an amazing food scene but my top 2 are Mr. Sushi and JT’s Pizza. Two very different establishments, both equally as good.