James Sutherland
Managing Partner | CEO
James Sutherland is an Economist by trade and the lead principal of SJK Development Group. With more than 30 years of experience in real estate development, structured finance, sustainability, economic development, government partnerships, and education reform, he brings a disciplined, analytical approach to complex assignments that sit at the intersection of public policy and private capital.
He has held strategic roles in projects spanning the U.S. Virgin Islands, international sports, and major education initiatives, earning recognition from senior public-sector leaders, including the former Secretary of State for the District of Columbia. Over three decades, James has developed a strong network and standing across public, private, and quasi-governmental institutions, providing the relationships and credibility required to advance complex, multi-party transactions from concept to closing. Under his leadership, SJK operates as an integrated, high-touch consulting platform that navigates political, regulatory, and capital-market considerations to deliver financeable, executable solutions.
Dan Houston
Principal Consultant
Dan Houston supports SJK Development Group with a focus on strategy, technical innovation, and development. With more than 20 years of experience in commercial real estate, new venture and startup development, smart building technologies, and public-private partnership initiatives, he brings a strong applied understanding of how technology, markets, and assets intersect. His background includes extensive market research and analysis, with a particular emphasis on identifying and evaluating emerging markets and technology-driven opportunities.
Dan’s role is to translate complex technical and market dynamics into clear, actionable strategies and structures that support financing and implementation. He is highly capable of rapidly understanding new technologies, adapting to evolving conditions, and designing innovative solutions that are often overlooked by more conventional approaches. Within SJK, he works to ensure that each project benefits from rigorous analysis, practical innovation, and development strategies that align technical potential with the requirements of lenders, investors, and public-sector partners.