2025 Distinguished Leadership Alumni Award: James J. Kavanaugh (MBA ’92)

Stay curious and surround yourself with people who think differently.

That advice has helped James J. Kavanaugh navigate an ever-changing tech landscape during his nearly 30 years with IBM, including the last seven as chief financial officer and senior vice president. 

“I have an insatiable appetite for learning, and I believe it is one of the most important traits a leader can cultivate,” he said.

For his visionary leadership, extraordinary accomplishments and commitment to service, Kavanaugh (MBA ’92) has been named the recipient of Fisher’s 2025 Alumni Award for Distinguished Leadership.

As CFO, Kavanaugh is responsible for aligning financial strategy with IBM’s shift into an AI-powered, hybrid cloud leader. Since 2018, he has played a pivotal role in the company’s transformation, leveraging innovation across AI, automation, data and services. 

We asked him to share his thoughts about leadership, Ohio State and what this award means to him.

Q. This award recognizes principled leaders who affect positive change in their company and community. How would you define principled leadership? 

To me, being a principled leader means operating with integrity and consistently doing what is right for the people involved, not just what is easy, popular or profitable. In my role, I strive to make an impact on my team every day. I am fortunate to work for a company that aims to make a positive impact globally in the communities where we operate, through business ethics and responsible technology, striving to be the catalyst that makes the world work better. Working for IBM helps me to stay true to my core values, even in the face of tough decisions or external challenges. My years at Ohio State taught me to pursue excellence while also sharing the responsibility of making a difference for others around me, and I practice that to this day. 

Q. As a leader, what strategies do you use to build meaningful connections with your team and corporate partners? 

One of the most important aspects of my role is shaping a positive, engaging culture where people feel connected to a shared purpose. I believe that meaningful connection starts with clarity, ensuring that everyone understands our company’s mission, values and the behaviors that define who we are. When people are aligned with this foundation, it fosters a sense of ownership and pride in our work and what we stand for. This is what fuels passion, deepens engagement, and builds confidence. I believe that these are all qualities that naturally strengthen collaboration and relationships, both internally and externally. By leading with purpose, clarity, and empathy, I hope to inspire followership and commitment, drive ownership mentality and build lasting partnerships that drive collective success. 

Q. What’s the most impactful piece of advice you’ve ever received — or shared with others — and why did it resonate with you? 

Never stop being curious. That simple, yet powerful advice has shaped the way I approach both my personal growth and my professional journey. I have an insatiable appetite for learning, and I believe it is one of the most important traits a leader can cultivate. One principle I live by is to surround myself with people who think differently. By doing this, I hear diverse perspectives that lead to some of the most innovative and strategic outcomes. This was especially true during my time at Ohio State. The diversity of thought among classmates from different backgrounds and disciplines was incredibly enriching.

Q. What’s a favorite memory you carry from your time at Ohio State? 

This is simple — the people. The connections I made at Ohio State are invaluable. I crossed paths with several talented individuals — peers, professors, staff — many of whom have gone on to become leaders in the business world and beyond. The people I have encountered, and the lasting influence each one has had on me, have been instrumental to my career. 

Q. Knowing what you know now about business and career success, what advice would you have for your younger self? 

From my perspective, success starts with pursuing a passion — doing what you love, honoring your values and working hard. Success doesn’t come easy, and to me, happiness is the highest form of success. If I was back at Ohio State, getting my MBA, I would remind myself that whatever you're passionate about, go for it, just make sure you're all in. Give it everything you've got, and most importantly, have fun along the way.

Q. What significance does this award from Fisher hold for you ─ personally and professionally? 

Ohio State was foundational in developing who I am as an individual today, both as a professional executive and as a husband and a father. I have always respected the values that Ohio State stands for, such as integrity and pursuing excellence, and I am honored to be the recipient of this award, inspired by the incredible legacy of Max M. Fisher.