James “Jim” Kranzusch, former executive director of the Jones MBA Career Center at the Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026. During his 15 years at Georgia Tech, Kranzusch helped build the College's MBA career services program and laid the foundation for its continued success.
By the time Kranzusch retired in May 2018, the Jones MBA Career Center had earned the No. 1 ranking in the world for MBA career services from the Financial Times.
“Jim was a great colleague who cared deeply for our students” said Jonathan Clarke, senior associate dean for strategic initiatives, who worked closely with Kranzusch. “Generations of our MBA graduates are better off because of him, and the Jones Career Center’s success today rests on the foundation he built. He will be greatly missed by everyone at Scheller who had the chance to work with him.”
In 2008, Kranzusch bought a ship’s bell from a marine supply store so MBA students could ring it when they received internship and job offers. Students soon began inviting friends and family to the celebrations, and ringing the bell remains a cherished Scheller tradition.
Kranzusch also helped establish the Scheller Veterans Club in 2016, supporting MBA students who had served in the military. A veteran himself, he served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army Infantry during the Vietnam War.
Before joining Georgia Tech, Kranzusch spent 15 years with IBM and another 17 years working in technology and real estate businesses in Atlanta. He was a graduate of Auburn University and earned his MBA from Columbia University.
Gary T. Jones, professor of the practice and namesake of the Jones MBA Career Center, recalled Kranzusch's dedication to students.
“Jim was a remarkable leader and visionary in addition to being a loving family man and loyal friend,” Jones said. “He loved the students and truly guided them as if they were his own children. He will be missed. And if anyone in heaven needs help finding a job, I have no doubt Jim will be there to offer guidance.”
Scheller extends its sincere condolences to Kranzusch’s wife, Donna, their children, Jason and Neely, and his extended family, friends, former students, and colleagues.
For details on Jim Kranzusch's memorial services and to leave a message for his family, please visit his memorial page.