James Ethier

Jim is a third generation member of the Bush family. "BUSH'S BEST" is the leading brand of bean products in the USA. Founded in 1908 by Andrew Jackson Bush, the company is headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee and has production locations in Chestnut Hill, Tennessee and Augusta, Wisconsin.  Formerly the Chairman & CEO, Jim has been with the company for 48 years and has served on the Board since 1975.

Jim has participated in the food industry as a Board member of the Grocery Manufacturers Association and Board member and Chairman of the Food Products Association. He received the Guard Society Honorary Life Member Award for 2000 which recognizes individuals for their years of service and their contribution to the food industry. In 2005 he received the Distinguished Leadership Award from the Food Products Association. 

In 2012, Jim was the recipient of the Family Enterprise Leadership Award from the Kellogg School at Northwestern University.  He is active as a Board member for a number of business, educational, and non-profit organizations.

Jim received his undergraduate degree from Georgetown University and an MBA from the Kellogg School at Northwestern University.

Jim and his wife, Melinda, live in Knoxville. He has three daughters, one son, and three grandchildren. In addition to civic activities, Jim enjoys golf and travel.