James E. McDonnell IV is founder and chief executive officer of PRO-LAB, American Restoration Services, and Windmill Advertising Group. He is also chief executive officer of Libation (a wine boutique), Plumbing by Bob (a full-service plumbing company), STOP Burgers and Fries, and East City Grill lounge and restaurant. After attending only two semesters of college, he went door-to-door selling microwave oven leakage detectors. With drive and determination, he forged ahead with his entrepreneurial pursuits and has since been able to create a number of innovative businesses. With a vision and understanding of environmental issues, he developed a line of easy-to-use, home safety test kits for mold, radon, lead, asbestos, and drinking water contaminants. Windmill Advertising was originally created to accommodate the needs of his many businesses, but now also serves a multitude of corporate clients. The company received 12 Addy awards in the 2007 Fort Lauderdale Advertising Federation competition.
McDonnell is a major supporter of the community and has been involved with groups such as The Boys & Girls Club, Rotary International, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, and the Ann Storck Center, along with many other organizations and charitable causes.