Business Leader Jim Bernhard Remembered for Impactful Legacy

The business community and local residents are mourning the loss of Jim Bernhard, a prominent figure in Louisiana’s economic landscape, who passed away recently. Born in Baton Rouge in 1954, Bernhard founded The Shaw Group and led it to remarkable success, shaping both the business environment and community in Louisiana.

Bernhard’s journey began after he graduated from Louisiana State University in 1976 with a degree in construction management. He initially worked at Sunland Services, advancing to executive vice president and general manager. In 1987, he seized an opportunity by purchasing assets from a company facing bankruptcy for $50,000, which marked the inception of The Shaw Group. Over the next 25 years, the company flourished, eventually becoming a Fortune 500 entity with revenues nearing $6 billion and employing around 4,000 individuals in Louisiana and an additional 23,000 worldwide.

The Shaw Group went public in the early 2000s, establishing its reputation in engineering and design. In 2013, it was sold to CB&I, marking a significant milestone in Bernhard’s career. Following this, he co-founded Bernhard Capital Partners, which has since become the largest private equity firm between Atlanta and Houston, currently managing 21 companies.

Beyond his business acumen, Bernhard was deeply committed to his community. He actively supported local initiatives, including a $4 million donation to launch the Shaw Center for the Arts in Baton Rouge, which revitalized the downtown area. His philanthropic efforts extended to organizations such as No Kid Hungry and local educational institutions like St. George Catholic Church and School and The Dunham School.

Bernhard also had a notable presence in politics, aligning with the Democratic Party and playing a key role in various campaigns. He chaired Kathleen Blanco’s gubernatorial campaign in 2003 and was the party chair during Hurricane Katrina, a period when The Shaw Group became an essential contractor for recovery efforts.

Despite considering runs for governor in 2015 and 2019, he ultimately chose to support John Bel Edwards, who successfully won both elections. Bernhard’s dedication to Louisiana was unwavering; he believed in the state as a place for business growth and community improvement.

As friends and colleagues gather for his funeral, the legacy of Jim Bernhard serves as a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on a community. His commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Louisiana, coupled with his business success, has left an indelible mark. The community will undoubtedly miss his leadership and vision.