Hon. James G. Rodriguez

James' Bio

The Honorable James G. Rodriguez is a Principal at Arete Public Affairs, bringing more than 25 years of experience as a respected political strategist, C-suite executive, and former elected official. With an extensive background in government, business development, and public affairs, James is known for his ability to navigate complex bureaucratic systems, cultivate meaningful partnerships, and deliver measurable outcomes across the public and private sectors.

Throughout his distinguished career, James has held senior leadership roles spanning the civil engineering, infrastructure, transportation, oil and gas, and communications industries. As Vice President at RRP Consulting Engineers and previously at S&B Infrastructure, he spearheaded business development and government relations strategies that expanded market presence and secured major infrastructure projects across Texas. Earlier, as Principal of Jet-Tex Solutions, LLC, he successfully advanced policy outcomes, expedited land use entitlements, and facilitated legislative reforms that resulted in increased efficiency and substantial savings for clients.

Prior to joining the private sector, James served as Chief of Staff to the Mayor of Pasadena, Texas, where he led intergovernmental relations, managed city operations, and advanced strategic initiatives focused on infrastructure, economic development, and public safety. His executive leadership in Pasadena complemented his deep experience in municipal governance earned as a Houston City Council Member for District I, where he served from 2008 to 2014. During his tenure, he chaired the Quality of Life Committee and served on key committees including Budget and Fiscal Affairs, Transportation, Technology & Infrastructure, Ethics & Governance, and Housing & Sustainable Growth. James was instrumental in landmark projects such as the development of the Houston Dynamo Stadium, expansion of Hobby Airport for international travel, creation of the 1,000-room Marriott Marquis Convention Center Hotel, and securing millions in public infrastructure investments citywide.

Earlier in his public service career, James served as Chief of Staff to Houston City Council Member and later Mayor Pro Tem Carol Alvarado, overseeing operations, budgets, and constituent services while leading initiatives to improve air quality, enhance community safety, and strengthen neighborhood infrastructure throughout Houston’s East End. His early professional experience also includes public affairs leadership roles with Campos Communications and Entech Civil Engineers, as well as business development in the private sector through his firm, James Rodriguez Consulting, LLC.