Independent.
Experienced.
Insightful.
When crisis, transformation or opportunity presents.
After decades of crisis management experience and consumer and retail leadership at KPMG and Ferrier Hodgson, I understand the difference between business success and failure is often the fine line where great strategy and disciplined execution meet.
AS FEATURED IN
Advisory
Strategic clarity. Pragmatic Counsel. Real world perspective.
With over four decades of experience and a career shaped by working with businesses across the bellcurve - James brings a rare, independent perspective to the table. Whether you're refining your strategy, navigating a high-stakes process, or pressure-testing a commercial decision, James is the advisor you want by your side. Known for his straight-talking, commercially astute, and outcome-focused approach, James works with leaders who value insight over theory, and impact over optics.
“I don’t just advise, I get close to the challenge, ask the right questions and help you move forward with clarity and confidence”
Hands On
When strategy and execution matter
James is more than a seasoned advisor — he’s a proven leader who knows how to step in, take charge, and drive outcomes. A former Chair of Partners at Ferrier Hodgson, Board member at KPMG and National Consumer and Retail sector leader, James’ no-nonsense, “can-do” approach brings clarity, momentum, and accountability to the most complex business challenges. With a strong grasp of detail, clear communication, and a deep belief in the power of trust, integrity, and aligned teams, James leads from the front.
“Above the line or below the line, I stay across the detail, because that’s where performance is shaped and value is unlocked”
Speaking
Where insights and engagement meet provocation and entertainment.
James is an experienced public speaker, media commentator, and panel moderator known for his clarity, energy, and stage presence. Drawing on four decades in the boardroom and the frontlines of business transformation, James delivers talks that are sharp, real, and grounded in lived experience. Best known for his insights into the consumer and retail sectors, James is equally compelling when speaking on crisis leadership, business failure, and what it takes to navigate the toughest of turnarounds.
“Whether a keynote, fireside chat or boardroom session, the content I deliver will inform, challenge and leave your audience thinking.”
“Restructuring specialists operating at the top of the market live professional life in dog years. James has seen successes, failures, transactions, collapses, disasters and miracles - and has seen them through the eyes of the boardroom, financiers, sellers, buyers, customers and regulators.”
Steven Palmer | Joint Lead for Australian Restructuring
Norton Rose Fulbright
Client Experience
