James’s career has spanned research, management and market development in the timber and forestry sectors in several countries, including a spell as CEO of Highland Birchwoods an NGO with a significant record of delivering native woodland restoration projects across Scotland. He holds a BSc Honours degree in forestry and a PhD, both from Aberdeen University, and an Honorary Professorship in Forestry from the University of the Highlands and Islands. He joined the Forestry Commission in 2002 becoming Chief Executive and Accounting Officer of Forest Research, and member of the Forestry Commission Executive Board in 2008.
James is responsible for the strategic vision and scientific direction of Forest Research, the leadership of 239 staff and an annual research budget of over £16.5m. His role is to ensure that Forest Research provides appropriate research and evidence to the Forestry Commission, forestry sector, UK, Scottish and Welsh ministers.
He is a keen angler, gardener and lifelong Newcastle United supporter!