Ongweoweh – James Davies

James Davies serves as the director of information technology at Ongweoweh Corporation, a Native American-owned company specializing in pallet management services. Ongweoweh’s offerings include pallet and packaging procurement, recycling, and supply chain optimization for major companies across various industries. Known for its emphasis on data analysis, custom reporting, and logistical insights, the company supports clients in improving operational efficiencies. With a robust customer base that includes several Fortune 500 companies, Ongweoweh has prioritized technological innovation to maintain its competitive edge. As Director of IT, Davies ensures the company’s IT infrastructure supports business continuity, security, and long-term growth.

At the core of Davies’ leadership is his belief that technology should empower rather than hinder. He views IT as a key enabler of business success and emphasizes its role in fostering collaboration and efficiency. His approach extends beyond technical implementation, as he focuses on building strong relationships within the organization to ensure IT solutions align with the needs of leadership and employees. For Davies, IT is not just a service department but a critical component of Ongweoweh’s success.

Davies is well-known for his personalized approach to IT management. He dedicates time to engaging with employees, maintaining open lines of communication with stakeholders, and addressing pain points. He prioritizes face-to-face interactions, including walking the halls to connect with team members and understand their challenges with existing systems. These efforts allow him to make informed decisions about tech initiatives, fostering trust and collaboration. His commitment to building strong internal relationships has created a positive work environment and high levels of employee engagement.

This personalized approach extends to Davies’ partnerships with technology vendors. When selecting partners, he considers technical capabilities and alignment with Ongweoweh’s values of integrity and service. These strategic, long-term partnerships ensure the company remains equipped with the best tools to achieve its objectives. For Davies, successful IT management hinges on trust and collaboration, internally and externally.

One of Davies’ most notable accomplishments has been leading Ongweoweh’s transition to a cloud-based IT infrastructure. This nearly completed migration is a cornerstone of the company’s long-term business continuity strategy. The shift was driven by a need for greater operational flexibility, improved security, and enhanced accessibility during disruptions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. By transitioning to the cloud, Ongweoweh has enabled employees to work remotely while maintaining productivity, ensuring seamless operations regardless of location.

The cloud migration also bolsters scalability and security. Recognizing the sensitive nature of the data Ongweoweh manages, Davies worked closely with cloud service providers to implement robust protections. This move enhances disaster recovery capabilities, simplifies data management, and supports the company’s growth by providing a more agile IT framework. As the cloud infrastructure becomes fully operational, it is expected to further improve efficiency and performance across the organization.

Beyond infrastructure, Davies is deeply invested in improving the day-to-day experience for Ongweoweh employees. He tailors IT solutions to meet the unique needs of various departments, streamlining workflows and reducing inefficiencies. These efforts enable employees to focus on high-value tasks without being bogged down by technical difficulties, boosting productivity and morale. The cloud-based system has also expanded remote work opportunities, helping the company attract talent from a wider geographic area.

In addition to his technical acumen, Davies is a strong leader for his IT team. He prioritizes employee development, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages proactive problem-solving. By staying ahead of industry trends, his team ensures Ongweoweh’s technology remains competitive and adaptable to changing business needs. Under his guidance, the IT department has become a vital asset, driving innovation and positioning the company as an industry leader.

Looking ahead, Davies is committed to further enhancing Ongweoweh’s IT capabilities. The full implementation of the cloud infrastructure will allow the company to expand its technological offerings and improve operational efficiency. Davies will continue to focus on security, scalability, and business continuity as Ongweoweh navigates an increasingly digital landscape. His forward-thinking approach ensures the company remains agile and well-prepared for future challenges.

Davies’ passion for technology began early, fueled by a fascination with systems and their problem-solving potential. He earned a degree in Computer Science from ICS, building a strong foundation in information systems that has supported his successful career in IT. With over 12 years at Ongweoweh, Davies has played a crucial role in driving technological advancements that streamline operations and enhance efficiency.

Outside of work, Davies enjoys a mix of outdoor activities and home improvement projects. Summers often find him at his 30-foot travel trailer in Canada, situated on a lake system connected to 12 lakes, ideal for fishing. He especially enjoys catching bass, often releasing larger ones to give young anglers the chance for an exciting catch. He also takes his motorcycle on scenic rides, appreciating the tranquility of the open road.

At home, Davies stays busy with various projects, including his current endeavor of replacing his deck with pavers. When not tackling home improvements, he spends time with his dog, taking long walks to unwind. A whiskey enthusiast, Davies appreciates a proper pour after a productive day, enjoying the craftsmanship of a well-made drink.

“Technology is like fishing, you need the right tools, patience, and a clear purpose. Whether it’s solving a problem at work, building something at home, or just enjoying a quiet moment by the lake, it’s all about finding the balance that makes life work.” Davies says.