About

A strategic leader of creative, people and teams. James spent the first half of his career partnering with some of the biggest brands on earth and learning how the corporate behemoths win. Now (like a reformed super villain), he’s using those skills to help the B-Corps, rebels and mission-led startups coming to take their throne.

Done it for:

Alpro / Chivas / Costa / EE / Expedia / giff gaff / The Guardian / Intel / Lay’s / Lucozade / Nike / MOO / Pepsi / Sainsbury’s / Ted Baker / Tommy Hilfiger / Malibu

Done it at:

Agencies: AnalogFolk / MRM / POKE / Poulters

In-house: MOO / Unmind / Butternut Box / Tent Box

Recognised by:

Campaign Magazine / Creative Review Annual / DMA / Design Week / Epica / FWA / The Lovies / The Drum Awards / Drum Content Awards / The Roses / Lürzer's Archive

DOWNLOAD CV

NIce words

“James was a great team leader and I do miss my time spent with him. I’ve learned a lot from him and hope our paths cross again.”

—  Yoshi Takagi, Design Director, Monocle

“As well as being full of original ideas, clear thinking – and always on top of current creative trends – James is a wonderful person to work for. He was very supportive of us as copywriters and designers, and enabling us to work with confidence. At the same time, he was always there to offer excellent advice when needed.”

—  Ed Ross, Head of Copy, Aesop

“I can’t speak more highly of James. Brilliant ideas, craft and insightful thinking. Leads to great work with real charm. And a top person too. Everyone needs a James in their life (or department.)”

— Terry O'Neill, Creative Director, Grey

news & views

dma awards judging

  • I was back again at the DMA awards, this time judging the copywriting category. Always interesting to listen to varied opinions and see what work actually creates a reaction, especially with the emphasis on recognising work that combines brilliance in creativity, strategy and results.

  • I was lucky. I stumbled into the industry and found my way - thanks in no small part to some of the brightest and best, who gave up their time and knowledge. Working with Arts Emergency as a mentor, I’ve gained fresh perspectives and hopefully ensured that more marginalised young people can achieve their creative ambitions.

in-house creativity

  • After moving brand-side I became one of the founding members of the Inside Out Community. Emma and the team have since created an amazing space where creative leaders can learn from each other and increase their influence and impact. I sat down with Emma on a recent episode of her podcast for some quick-fire thoughts about my world, work and what in-house creative leadership really looks like today.

mentoring