A 6th-generation Floridian, James E. Dicks Jr. has a deep-rooted passion for turning vision into reality through innovative real estate development, technological advancement, and a lifelong dedication to public service.
Grounded by faith, family, and the values instilled by the United States Marine Corps, James approaches every endeavor with perseverance and a focus on efficiency. He constantly strives to improve, innovate, and lead from the front.
A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, James credits his military service with teaching him the invaluable principle of "Adapt and Overcome." This lesson has guided him in navigating the complexities of both business and life, where success often depends on quick decision-making, leading under pressure, and embracing uncertainty as conditions constantly shift.
A Real Estate "Game Changer"
For over 20 years, James has excelled as a leading real estate developer in Central Florida. As the CEO of DIX Developments, a fully integrated real estate development, construction, and management firm, he oversees a portfolio containing over $300 million in land assets.
Under his leadership, the company manages more than 10,000 residential lots across Brevard to Citrus County, spanning various stages of ownership and entitlement. His projects encompass both horizontal and vertical developments, including massive mixed-use commercial centers (totaling 7 million square feet), high-end luxury residential home sites, 3,200 multifamily units, and an ultra-high-end "Street of Dreams" featuring six show homes with prices up to $8 million.
"James Dicks is not just building communities, he's building the future of Orlando and beyond."
— Orlando Business Journal
Recently named a 2024 "Game Changer" and a 2024 "Veteran of Influence" by the Orlando Business Journal, his massive development pipeline includes the start of the $2.5 billion Ashton Park project in Palm Bay and major land acquisitions across Lake County and Leesburg. "My family's been doing this forever," Dicks notes, "and I'm proud to continue that legacy by building vibrant, sustainable communities that enrich the lives of residents."
Department of Defense & Public Service
James Dicks’ dedication to supporting service members and empowering employers underscores his profound commitment to the nation’s military. Sworn in during a formal ceremony at the Mark Center in Washington D.C. in August 2014, James served two three-year tours as the State Chair of the Florida Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), under the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense.
His exceptional leadership and initiative were the driving force behind significant improvements to the essential ESGR programs of Employer Outreach, Military Outreach, and Ombudsman Services. In addition, as the Boss Lift Director, he oversaw the planning and execution of orientation programs where civilian employers were invited to travel to military facilities to observe Guard and Reserve members performing their duties firsthand.
For his exceptional public service from October 2014 to September 2020, James was awarded the highly prestigious Secretary of Defense Award. The citation notes that he routinely went above and beyond the requirements of his position, bringing great credit upon himself and the Department of Defense. He continues to serve today as Chair Emeritus.
Backing Law Enforcement
Beyond his federal service, James is deeply involved in local community leadership and public safety. He has dedicated significant time and resources to supporting law enforcement across Florida.
He serves as the President of the Seminole County Sheriff Foundation and the St. Johns County Sheriff Foundation, and is the President Emeritus of the Osceola County Sheriff Foundation. Furthermore, he serves on the Advisory Boards for both the Orange County Sheriff Foundation and the Orlando Police Foundation.
Recognizing his expertise and dedication to community welfare, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody named James as one of only 18 experts and community leaders to serve on her Opioid Abuse Working Group, alongside Chair, Sheriff Dennis Lemma. He continues to serve on numerous task forces aimed at combating this national epidemic.
Bestselling Author & Innovator
James Dicks is one of the nation's leading educators on the subjects of Real Estate, Stocks, Options, the Foreign Exchange (FOREX) Market, and empowering investors to take control of their financial futures.
An internationally recognized financial educator, James has published nine best-selling books with McGraw-Hill. His original book, Forex Made Easy, is currently in its 24th printed edition and remains on bookstore shelves after 17 years. His works have been translated into five languages and have sold over a quarter-million copies globally.
He is also the founder of some of the fastest-selling financial software programs designed to allow retail investors access to global financial markets. Because of his vast expertise, James has been featured extensively in the media, appearing on CNBC, NBC, ABC, FOX, and CBS, as well as being quoted in The Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, Forbes, and USA Today.