James was born and grew up in Glasgow, Scotland. He spent four years at Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh studying Government, Economics and History. In September this year James took over the role of Chief Executive of the Windsor Leadership Trust.

James has been involved in managing change programmes within organisations at several levels from strategy formulation to the introduction of shop floor team-working. He is the author of four books, seven book chapters and over 30 journal articles related to organisational behaviour and change in organisations. James has been involved in teaching and consultancy in the UK, United States, most of Western Europe and Southeast Asia in the areas of organisation development, change management and teamwork.

James has worked and consulted for several blue chip organisations including as Managing Director of Sotheby's Institute of Art; British Petroleum, China Light and Power, Compaq Computers, Guinness, Motorola, National Semiconductor, NEC and the Bahrain Government.

James’ current research interests involve the politics of organisational change and the use of politicking by managers.

Over the course of the next several years James intends to broaden his skills and experience by growing and developing the Trust’s position as a significant provider of leadership education.

James is married to Sara with three children aged 22, 7 and 5 (2 girls and 1 boy). An avid reader, he is particularly keen on leadership biographies, management and thrillers. He is a member of his daughter’s PTA and struggles manfully to keep up with an all-female household!