Hello, and welcome! I’m William James, author of the upcoming memoir The Accidental Executive: Finding Purpose in Public Service.
You might be wondering:
What exactly is an “Accidental Executive”? And why am I writing about it?
Well, if you’ve ever found your career path taking an unexpected turn, or landed in a leadership role you didn’t exactly plan for, then you might just be an “Accidental Executive” too.
My memoir chronicles my own journey from the very bottom rung of civil service – starting as a GS-1 clerk – all the way to the highest levels of leadership in the Senior Executive Service. It wasn’t a straight line, and it certainly wasn’t always glamorous. Trust me, there were plenty of moments that felt like a slow-motion battle against bureaucracy.
At the heart of it all—the North Star that guided me—is this:
Purpose isn’t found by accident. It’s cultivated through intention, resilience, and a commitment to something greater than yourself.
In a world that often dismisses government work with phrases like “good enough for government work,” I discovered that excellence, innovation, and profound impact are not only possible—they’re essential. It’s about ensuring every dollar, every minute, every decision ripples outward—touching the lives of those we serve and empowering the teams behind the mission.
Why This Blog?
While my book shares the full, unvarnished story—challenges, triumphs, and even the occasional absurdity (yes, including the infamous “buttermilk incident” and the “Great Specimen Cup Shortage”)—I believe the lessons are too valuable to stay bound between two covers.
As the U. S. Air Force Chief Scientist once said, “God gave us 2 ears and 1 mouth. Use them in that ratio.”
I’ve done a lot of listening and learning. Now it’s time to share.
What to Expect
- Rising from the bottom rung of civil service to senior leadership—turning obstacles into opportunities.
- Defying the “good enough” stereotype through relentless pursuit of excellence and impact.
- Bridging technology and humanity—ensuring every decision serves both people and mission.
Whether you’re a seasoned public servant, a college senior wondering about a government career, a company looking to partner with federal agencies, or simply someone seeking more meaning in your work, I believe there’s something here for you.
My hope is that by sharing these insights, I can help you recognize the “accidental” moments in your own career as opportunities for purposeful growth.
Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the unexpected paths to purpose, impact, and leadership—together.
📘 For the full story and deeper insights into finding your purpose in public service, explore my memoir, The Accidental Executive, launching August 5th!
