James has worked in social care in local and central government for over 30 years, with a background in community work.
James joined the Care Quality Commission (CQC) as Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care in June 2023 until September 2025, to oversee the reintroduction of inspections of Local Authority Adult Social Care and Integrated Care Systems. In 2024 he helped the CQC to transition to new leadership as Chief Executive.
James was previously Executive Director of Adult Social Services at Norfolk County Council and prior to that, DASS at Essex County Council, overseeing transformation and integration in those Councils.
James is also a Trustee for Skills for Care, on the Advisory Council of the Kings Fund.