J.R. Miller was born in Baltimore, Maryland, where he attended the University of Baltimore and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. He also holds a Master's degree in Governmental Administration from the Fels School at the University of Pennsylvania. He held executive positions in governmental procurement and was an instructor and consultant for NIGP: The Institute for Public Procurement. He has authored textbooks and taught procurement, management and leadership classes throughout the United States and Canada. Additionally, he was an adjunct professor at Harford Community College in Maryland and the University of Virginia.