James Grigg

“My family, the team I work with, and the customers I support motivate me to get up every day, give 100 percent to whatever task is at hand, and strive to be the best I can be.”

James says success in the PVF market is not instantaneous — it’s a marathon. After 16 years focused on industrial, and 18 years with Ferguson, he’s still working hard every day to build on the success he’s already had. And he wouldn’t have it any other way.

James got his start with Ferguson at 667 San Diego in 2004, working the receiving desk and literally sweeping the floor on his first day. Two years later he got the opportunity to go into outside sales with the goal of driving industrial business. He credits mentors Dan Navarro and Grady Lynch with helping him learn the ropes, and his customers with helping gain a deep understanding of valves and piping. His first industry was the Power market, and James went all-in, driving 3 hours to chase geothermal power business. His efforts paid off, because he says when it’s 110 degrees outside, there’s limited competition. In fact, he did so well he earned the President’s Circle award.

As Ferguson continued to grow its industrial market, James’ career — and successes — continued to grow as well. He counts himself lucky to have interacted with some of the industry’s best, including former associates Don Adams, Terry Godwin, and Jerry Ladley who all helped paved the way for more growth in Southern California. Later, when associates Chris Lang and Dwight Beard landed in Southern California, they brought laser focus on markets and strategy as well as extensive knowledge of V&A. James says their guidance, support, and actions made his success possible. He was promoted to Industrial Sales Manager for Southern California in 2014 and saw his territory expand in 2020 to include Northern California, Northern Nevada, and Hawaii.

James is motivated by an innate desire to do everything to the best of his ability. He takes to heart the same advice he gives to those starting out in the business: ask questions, be open-minded, and seek to understand and learn every day. James is known for his positive can-do attitude and for following through on what he says he’s going to do — both of which are ideal characteristics for success in life, not just at work.