Early Life
James was born in London. His family moved to Oxfordshire, when he was two, seeking a more rural setting surrounded by neighbouring farms. A happy compromise for a father who had grown up amongst the rolling hills of Shropshire and a mother who was more at home roaming the bustling streets of London.
It was a happy and carefree childhood, if somewhat traditional. James attended a boarding school in Oxford from the age of 8, before moving to a secondary school in Berkshire.
He finished his studies at Newcastle University, reading Economics.
Career
James’ career began in an orthodox fashion, as a management consultant on Deloitte’s graduate scheme. The intense, project-based work was a fantastic training ground alongside more formal studies to become a chartered management accountant.
In 2016, James received the life-changing diagnosis of Stargardt’s Disease, a juvenile form of macular degeneration. It forced him to re-evaluate his career choices and he resolved to do something with a tangible and positive societal impact.
In the startup world, he worked for a HealthTech firm providing digital therapy for stroke and dementia patients. A cause close to his heart because his grandmother had suffered with severe dementia. During Covid, he successfully founded his own business to rent outdoor facilities but struggled to scale it.
Entering the political world, he worked as a researcher for Anthony Browne MP. He spearheaded campaigns on pension and mortgage market reform in conjunction with speech writing and policy research.
He currently works in public relations, providing strategic advice to the world’s leading companies and organisations.
Politics
The Brexit Referendum in 2016 was a pivotal moment, launching James’ politics from the armchair out onto the streets. Since then, James has campaigned on a range of national and local campaigns.
In 2022, James stood as a councillor in the Labour-held ward of Fulham Reach. While he was not able to unseat the incumbents, he did beat the local swing.
In 2024, James stood as the parliamentary candidate for Ealing Central and Acton. In a tough election for the Conservatives, James was able to reduce Labour’s majority whilst seeing off effective campaigns from the Liberal Democrats and Greens.
Currently, James is Vice Chair of his local association and chairs his local ward.
Personal Life
James lives in West London with his wife, Addy, who grew up in Worcestershire and is always keen to sell a return to the Malvern Hills. James has gently resisted so far!
James’ eye condition provides friction in day-to-day life but few barriers. He is still able to work at a computer and drive, but struggles to recognise faces in public settings.
Away from work and politics, James loves being out in the great British outdoors whether walking along the river or trying to swing something at a ball, whether it is a racquet or a club!