Meet the Team: Jim Shade
Jim Shade joined APEX Group, a Diverzify Company, as an account executive in March 2025. In his new role, Jim will build strong relationships with clients in the Houston area and identify solutions to meet the needs of their facilities.
“Jim truly cares about the clients he works with,” said Thomas Holland, president of APEX Group. “He doesn’t just want to make a sale. He wants to create value that exceeds their expectations and demonstrates our commitment to a true partnership.”
We recently sat down with Jim to welcome him to the team and learn more about him, both personally and professionally.
1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up in Allentown, Pennsylvania. I joined the U.S. Navy after high school, which gave me the opportunity to travel all over the Pacific Ocean. After many moves, I ended up in Magnolia, Texas, which is 40 miles northwest of Houston. I am married to a wonderful woman named Debbie. I have three children—Tyler, 35; McCall, 28; and Brianna, 28—and I also have a stepdaughter, Katelyn, 29.
2. Why did you decide to join the APEX Group team?
I absolutely love the culture and family atmosphere at APEX. The hands-on attitude from the top down is a major reason for anyone to join the company. Another selling point was the company’s massive growth and opportunities for my own growth. APEX Group gets amazing results, and I love working with clients who get just as excited as I do when they see the before-and-after pictures of our projects.
3. How has your past experience prepared you for your new role?
I joined APEX Group after working with another surface care company for three years. I have worked in the commercial building industry for years and know the stone industry particularly well, which helps me identify and solve any problems clients might have. I also have a passion for working with customers to get the results they are looking for.
4. What are your hobbies?
I play golf and hunt whenever I can. I enjoy most sports in general. My wife and I like boating together and actually got married on our boat. We also have two labrador retrievers, and I spend a great amount of time swimming with them in our pool.
5. What’s the most interesting article or book you’ve read lately?
I love reading about the political landscape, but I’ll keep my book recommendations to myself.
6. If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
There are many food groups that I love, from seafood to steak. If I had to choose, though, I could not live without a great New York-style pizza!
7. What’s on your bucket list?
My wife and I would love to take a trip across the pond to Europe. I have been to many countries but never Europe. Some of the countries we would like to see include Germany, France, Switzerland, and many others.