Supporting Leaders to Think Clearly, Decide Confidently, and Lead Effectively
About James
With more than 25 years’ experience in senior leadership and board-level roles, I’ve worked with a wide range of organisations—from large corporates to mid-sized businesses and founder-led companies. Over that time, I’ve held positions including CEO, COO, Chair, Non-Executive Director, and Advisory Board Member, and have led teams across commercial, marketing, and operations functions.
Alongside my hands-on experience, I hold a Professional Certificate in Coaching from Henley Business School, which underpins my work with a structured, evidence-based approach.
A few years ago, I founded Rocks Leadership, where I focus on mentoring and coaching founders, general managers, heads of department, and directors across a variety of sectors. It’s a genuine privilege to support people as they grow into confident, effective leaders.
More recently, I’ve been accepted as a volunteer youth mentor with MCR Pathways—something I’m proud to be part of.
My Belief
Across my career, one lesson stands out: the quality of your thinking determines the quality of your outcomes. The greatest step-changes in my own leadership came when I created space to step back, reflect, and challenge my assumptions with the support of experienced coaches and mentors.
Who I Work With
Today, I work with business owners, founders, directors, and senior leaders across sectors who want to strengthen their leadership, sharpen decision-making, and accelerate both personal and organisational performance.
Coaching or Mentoring?
Coaching
Helping you gain clarity and arrive at your own solutions. Through structured challenge, reflection, and accountability, I use proven coaching methodologies to create a process that is not only effective, but also engaging and enjoyable
Mentoring
Drawing on real-world leadership experience, I provide practical insight, advice, and perspective to help you navigate challenges and make confident decisions—within a supportive and engaging environment
Many clients find the greatest value in a blend of both approaches, depending on the topic they want to discuss