About Jim, Executive Vice president

 James Temple began his career with the United States Postal Service in 2001 as a Temporary Relief Carrier (TRC). Later that same year, he was converted to a Rural Carrier Associate (RCA), and by December 2007, he achieved full-time status as a Rural Carrier. During his time in that role, James also served as a 204b, where he honed his skills in rural payroll (the traditional manual method), scheduling, and developing a deep understanding of day-to-day operations within the facility.

His leadership journey continued as he served as the Officer in Charge (OIC) at the Bristol Post Office (Level 18) before earning his first Executive and Administrative Schedule (EAS) position in 2014 as Supervisor of Customer Services at the Elkhart Post Office. In 2017, he returned to the OIC role at the Goshen Post Office (Level 22) and, in 2018, was promoted to Postmaster of the Mishawaka Post Office, also a Level 22 office.

James’s professional experience expanded beyond operations when he served as the Acting Marketing Manager for the Greater Michigan District in 2021, supporting the organization through its restructure and transition to Michigan 2. In 2022, he served as Acting Safety Manager in Michigan 2 before returning to his Postmaster role in Mishawaka.

James has a deep-rooted passion for developing others through teaching, mentoring, and coaching. He is committed to helping individuals grow their skills and achieve success both professionally and personally. His dedication to leadership and development is supported by extensive training and certifications, including: Graduate of Management Essentials, Graduate of the New Supervisor Program, Certified Route Count Examiner, Certified Team Lead, Facilitator Skills Trained, Postmaster Essentials – Train the Trainer.

James joined the United Postmasters and Managers of America (UPMA) in 2021, a decision he calls one of the best of his professional career. He credits UPMA with reigniting his passion for leadership and service—not because he was in trouble, but because he was tired of being treated poorly and feeling isolated. Through UPMA, he found community, purpose, and renewed energy. He has served on the Indiana Board since 2021. First as the At-Large Vice President of Conventions and Education, then as the At-Large Vice President of Legislative/PAC. He is currently the Executive Vice President Elect. A new positions that he will hold beginning on July 1, 2025.