James Bell
James Bell Head of Consumer Affairs General Motors With almost 15 years of experience, James Bell is a nationally recognized and authoritative resource within the automotive industry. During his tenure, James has diligently analyzed and effectively communicated automotive data and research to multiple constituencies, including the national and international media, automotive manufacturers, and dealers, and the every-day car shopper. His multifaceted experience has led to a unique perspective on the industry that easily crosses over the boundaries between the general consumer and passionate enthusiast. Prior to joining GM, James was Vice President of Corporate Communications and Executive Market Analyst for Kelley Blue Book. In this role, he was charged with promoting the KBB.com brand and driving traffic to its award-winning Web site. Bell also oversaw the company’s consumer communication efforts through social media and viral marketing platforms. In addition, he served as the company’s chief spokesperson with the media and has been featured on national television news shows on CNN, Fox News, CBS, NBC, national and local talk radio, as well as within the pages of both respected newspapers and automotive trade publications. Before KBB, Bell served six years as editor and publisher at IntelliChoice.com. He was responsible for strategic automotive advertising and marketing consultation for all car manufacturers, including brand strategy development and licensing opportunities. He also led all sales, marketing, research and promotion strategies within the company. While at IntelliChoice, Bell hosted and regularly contributed to his blog, The Bell Curve, on the company’s Web site addressing the latest automotive news and issues. As an industry leader, he also served as company spokesperson for the media. James also enjoyed five years with R.L. Polk in the U.S. where he held such positions as business development manager in their dealer solutions group and account executive. While with Polk, he also assigned to work in their European operations as director of Ford of Europe where he worked to develop OEM-oriented programs and services. He also handled overall relationships with the U.S. operations of Toyota, Lexus and the European operations of Honda, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo. Bell currently serves on the board of directors for the Motor Press Guild in Los Angeles and was President of this revered organization, the largest of its kind in the U.S., in 2010 and 2011. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Communications and Political Science from California State University.
