James has sought professional endeavours across a variety of industries and geographies, beginning in finance at Goldman Sachs and Kleinwort Benson, then four years in the maritime sector crewing on a wide range of sail and motor superyachts. Whilst simultaneously advising his small family business in the UK, which is a diversified agribusiness operation involved in arable farming, renewable energy, and holiday lodges.

Most recently, James has been working closely with UK investors who focus on growing small to mid-sized businesses and have achieved success through the search fund model.

James has actively sought leadership roles throughout his career and thrives in them. Within his small family business, he oversaw a project to convert redundant farm buildings into sustainably-designed residential homes and commercial offices. As a Bosun in the maritime sector he led a deck team throughout various operations, from transatlantic ocean passages to major shipyard maintenance projects.

Whilst serving in the British Army Reserves, he completed the military leadership development programme as an Officer Cadet, and took the lead role in various training exercises in command of a 30-person platoon.

James has sought to gain experience across the finance, maritime, and agribusiness sectors. Early investment and private banking roles provided a comprehensive understanding of how companies operate, as he was responsible for accurate regulatory and financial reporting. A major IT infrastructure project also exposed James to the rigorous analysis required to ensure objectives are delivered on time and within budget.

James has also experienced a wide variety of roles in his small family business, for example liaising across multiple community stakeholder group to successfully deliver a holiday lodge diversification project.

Most recently James graduated with an MBA with distinction from Saïd Business School, University of Oxford in 2021. James also earned a BA degree with honours in Business Management and Economics from Nottingham Business School, Nottingham Trent University in 2014.

A continuous learner who is always seeking to combine theory and practice, James also received a scholarship award to study for Officer Of the Watch (OOW) certification whilst simultaneously working onboard various vessels. He completed courses in areas such as crew welfare, first-aid, fire-fighting, and advanced navigation.

Growing up in a family business environment has provided James with a strong sense of stewardship when it comes to being part of the local business community. This has continued as he has seized opportunities to volunteer in various conservation initiatives, from organising tree planting around his local village to travelling to a wildlife reserve in South Africa to assist with land management projects.

Sport also plays a major role, highlights for James include working as a ski instructor in Canada, to being selected as crew for a transatlantic race, and most recently representing his College rowing 1st VIII at Oxford.