Speakers

Starting life in Perthshire, James followed his Father's footsteps at Gleneagles before heading to Edinburgh where his studies led him the spend nearly a decade at The Balmoral. Moving in 2009 as part of the opening team at Blythswood Square, Glasgow's first five-star Hotel. 2012 saw James move south to Newcastle, where he joined Malmaison as Deputy General Manager, then Seaham Hall followed by Slaley Hall as Hotel Manager. This was followed by a move to Yorkshire as General Manager of The Devonshire Arms, Bolton Abbey and latterly as Director of Operations for the Devonshire Hotels and Restaurant Group. Two years ago an opportunity came about to lead the redevelopment of Matfen Hall in Northumberland to create a luxury golf and spa estate that would be nationally acclaimed. In May 2024 the AA saw fit to award five stars, the first time Northumberland has had an Hotel with this accolade.