About James
I head up MRG’s Student Accommodation and Commercial Services Practice, focusing on senior leadership appointments across the public and private sectors. With 12 years of experience in accommodation, hospitality, retail recruitment, and search, including over five years at MRG, I draw on a strong network to gain trusted industry referrals and recommendations.
Recent assignments include the CEO appointment at Unipol, the Global People Director at The Dot Group, and the Global COO at Yugo. I’ve also provided strategic training and advice to organisations such as Hines-Aparto and UAL.
In the past two years, I’ve represented MRG as a panellist or facilitator at events including Property Week, AVS, CUBO, and Unipol conferences.
I graduated from the University of Liverpool in 2012 with a degree in Business and Communication Studies.
“Networking is not about hunting. It is about farming. It's about cultivating long lasting relationships.
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Q&A With James
What makes MRG 'Different by Design'?
“Different by design" – To me, this is offering a uniquely personalised service to each client based on the specific requirements of the partner and the role. Offering a truly consultative service above and beyond the recruitment of the role.
How has your career at MRG progressed?
I started my journey at MRG one month before the COVID-19 pandemic and am truly grateful for the support MRG provided me during this turbulent period. My role was a Senior Practice Manager, with a focus on a single-discipline desk in university commercial services. During my journey with MRG, my role has evolved into managing private sector PBSA, in addition to University Commercial Services, which work hand in hand as complementary sectors.
During my journey with MRG, I received a promotion to an Associate Director role, managing a team of two. I now sit on the senior leadership team, contributing to the broader business strategy and driving business growth.
My journey has helped me understand the value of a true partnership approach with long-term clients and delivering a structured search process on a consistent basis.
How do you add value to your customers?
I add value to my customers by being a true expert in my markets, having contributed to conferences, thought leadership pieces, and completed numerous industry-defining campaigns.
With my extensive long-term network in specific markets, I can provide consultative advice on salary data, structures, and industry trends, as well as help my clients find exceptional talent.
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