James graduated from Leeds Trinity in 2002 after completing a postgraduate course in Broadcast Journalism, following his undergraduate degree at the University of Newcastle, before pursuing a career as a sports journalist.

After graduating, he worked as a freelance journalist alongside starting a PR business writing press releases for clients. He then became Real Radio’s chief correspondent for coverage on Bradford City Football Club, his hometown club, before getting his big break on BBC One’s flagship Final Score programme. James has also run his own manufacturing business for 15 years.

More recently, James was appointed as the CEO at Welcome to Yorkshire in 2019. James left this role in October and takes over from retiring Chief Executive of the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, Sandy Needham, on Tuesday 3 May.

James said: “I am very excited to get started in my new role as Chief Executive of the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

“Chambers of Commerce exist to represent businesses across the region to connect, inform, support and listen to the challenges and opportunities that exist for business owners and their sectors.

“Having worked within West Yorkshire for the majority of my career and with experience of running my own business, I am looking forward to leading a hard-working team of colleagues to do our best for the thousands of members that are proud to be part of the Chambers across North and West Yorkshire.

“I learnt a lot at Leeds Trinity University which prepared me for life after graduation, and ultimately played a huge part in my journey to where I am today.”

Professor Catherine O’Connor, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education and Experience at Leeds Trinity University, said: “We are incredibly proud to see James’s appointment as Chief Executive of the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

“Since leaving Leeds Trinity University, James has had an outstanding career both as a successful sports journalist and running his own business for many years.

“It is always great to hear about the success of our alumni and what they go on to achieve upon leaving Leeds Trinity. We are privileged that many continue to work closely with us to support our students with opportunities like mentoring, professional placements and guest speaking.  Alumni like James really do give our students the inspiration to accomplish whatever they want if they set their minds to it.”

Before joining the North and West Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, James set up a not-for-profit Dementia Café, which runs two weekly groups in Bradford and Guiseley under the banner of Yorkshire Memories.

The alumni community at Leeds Trinity University supports and enhances the student experience in a number of ways, including mentoring students to help them develop their skills and confidence; providing professional work placements; and sharing their own experiences at events and online.

Read more about the Leeds Trinity University alumni community on the website.