James is an experienced hospitality practitioner and consultant, with over 20 years’ experience in the industry. After graduating with a degree in Hospitality Business Management, James developed a management career within food and beverage and has worked for, and with, a variety of hotels, restaurants, and bars.

Prior to joining Russell Partnership Collection, James established his own consultancy business, working with a variety of independent and national hospitality, education, and care organisations to review their operations and processes and successfully supporting business improvements across a range of functions.

Since joining the Partnership, James has worked closely with leading universities, the NHS, local government, hotels, and independent food businesses, to review and develop catering strategies, develop new food concepts, and manage new outlet design projects. James has also written, developed, and delivered training programmes for leading international hotel, travel, and leisure operators.

Qualified to master’s level in Organisation Development and Consultancy, James is currently furthering his education through studying a part-time PhD exploring success and failure in new restaurants. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Hospitality, Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, and is an experienced university lecturer in hospitality management.