James Hinkle

As a Partner at The SPECTRUM Group and former leader of the Navy Team and M&A Support and Due Diligence COE, Admiral Hinkle delivers more than 40 years of expertise in Navy programs and Congressional relations. He has provided critical, expert BRAC assessments and strategic planning to communities and governments, including developing strategic plans for community and legislative implementation, and assisting communities in developing cases for reversing DoD BRAC decisions.

Before joining The SPECTRUM Group, Admiral Hinkle served a 33-year career with the U.S. Navy, culminating in serving as the Deputy Chief of Naval Personnel and Commander of the Navy Personnel Command. He served six tours of duty with the Navy Department in Washington, D.C., including a tour as Director of Programs in the Navy Office of Legislative Affairs. Admiral Hinkle was appointed by the Chief of Naval Operations to direct Navy efforts in the first Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR). He is a recognized expert on Navy human capital development.

Also in his Navy career, Admiral Hinkle co-chaired the study on reduced manning in DDG-51 class ships and was instrumental in raising awareness of personnel and manning issues in the Littoral Combat Ship. Admiral Hinkle commanded an Aircraft Carrier Battle Group, the Maritime Interception Force in the Red Sea during the Gulf War, and a guided missile destroyer deployed to the Persian Gulf.

Admiral Hinkle has extensive experience providing independent, programmatic due diligence to companies pursuing acquisitions or competitive intelligence, and to investment entities interested in the current and likely future status of investment opportunities. He has previously served as an Outside Director for several foreign-owned companies operating on U.S. government contracts.