Jim Rout's family moved frequently as he grew up. He attended 10 different Memphis City Schools before graduating from Messick High School. While his family’s mobility caused him some difficulties, ultimately it taught him to adjust quickly and thrive in diverse settings. Through his moves, he developed a love of the city and county. All of this would later be reflected when Mr. Rout decided to run for public office.
Mr. Rout was a successful businessman working 10 years in sales and marketing for the Xerox Corporation. He also was president of Behavioral Health Group, Inc., a firm that provided mental health care for large businesses. Mr. Rout began his political career with his election to the Shelby County Commission where he served from 1978 to 1994. In 1994, he was elected as Mayor of Shelby County. Mayor Rout served in this position until 2002.
Mayor Rout has received many honors and awards including Legislator of the Year (1989), Arthritis Foundation's Man of the Year (1995), the University of Memphis' Alumni of the Year Award (1995) and the Leadership Memphis' Kate Gooch Award for Service to the Community (1999). The Medical Center named part of its building in his honor. Mayor Rout's public service includes serving as a board member for Boy Scouts of America, Board of Trustee's for Goals for Memphis, President's Circle at Christian Brothers University and Telethon Chairman for the Memphis Epilepsy Foundation to name only a few.
Mayor Jim Rout's travels taught him more than the geography of Memphis. He used what he learned in 10 Memphis City Schools to benefit all the citizens of Shelby County.