Jim Butler is a seasoned manager with more than 30 years experience as the chief operating officer of Mid-States Petroleum—an $80 million corporation. During his tenure, the company grew from four c-stores to more than 50 retail outlets. Jim directed the acquisition of 13 companies and was responsible for the design and construction of 18 remodeled sites, seven new retail sites, and two auto malls. He was also responsible for the addition of five bulk plants and warehouse distribution centers in three states. Mid-States was one of the largest wholesalers of petroleum in the Mid west before the business was sold in 1997.

Since 1997, Jim has worked in consulting, commercial real estate sales, and real estate development. He became managing director of Cornerstone’s Detroit office in December 2004.

Jim has dedicated significant service to the petroleum industry. He has lobbied on behalf of the petroleum industry and testified at the state level before the Transportation, Commerce, and Treasury departments. He is a past president of the Michigan Petroleum Association, the Detroit Oil Men’s Club, the Petroleum Marketing Education Foundation, the Union Oil Company National Marketers Association. He is also past chairman of the Business Advisory Committee at Western Michigan University and of the Legislative Committee of the Michigan Petroleum Association.

In addition to his industry service, Jim is active with several local service and community groups including the Kiwanis and the Boys and Girls Club. When he’s not busy with one of his many obligations, Jim enjoys spending his time on racquetball, flying, and photography. Jim and his wife Vicki have two successful adult children.

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