James has spent his career working in the Hospitality, Retail and Hotel industries, in a number of capacities such as: General Manager, Operations Director, Managing Director and now Consultant with Russell Partnership. His extensive operational experience is invaluable to the work he undertakes. James shares his time working across both the consultancy and technology sides of the Partnership, delivering strategic guidance, tactical food and beverage advice and creative solutions to the clients he works with, both in industry and education.
James has recently worked with: Therme Wellbeing Resorts, University of Birmingham, Ascot Racecourse, ADNEC, R&A British Golf, St Johns College Cambridge, RWC Japan 2019 and Museum of London. In recent months, James has assumed responsibility for all operational delivery for Therme Wellbeing Resort food and beverage, under the newly created Therme RPC joint venture.
Prior to joining the Partnership, James started his career with the Hotel du Vin Group, where he worked in the capacity of General Manager from the age of 26, within three of their boutique properties. James is an Acorn Award Winner – an award which recognises the top managers under the age of thirty in the hospitality industry.
James’ leadership style and tenacity to build on customer service levels and company performance, won him several in-house accolades for highest mystery customer and best hotel. James went on to develop his family-owned food, beverage and retail business – Caracoli. As co-owner and working as Operations and then Managing Director, he expanded the business from a single site into five successful locations, including central production kitchens with a Head Office. He was fully responsible for site acquisition, design, project management and everyday operations for each of the locations. Caracoli was voted The Telegraph Magazine Best Small Shop in Britain ‘for food’ award in 2012.
James remains close to the industry through attendance at relevant forums and events as well as speaking and participating in panel discussions relating to industry trending topics.
