James founded the Richmond Group in 1999 to make simple, transparent financial products available for those excluded by mainstream lenders. James has won awards for growth, profitability and as one of the UK’s best employers.

2008 saw James feature in Channel 4 documentary series Secret Millionaire, set in Moss Side in Manchester where he went undercover to look for deserving people to give money to. 

In 2010, James received the honour of being recognised as Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Consumer Products and Services. 

As 100% shareholder of the Richmond Group, James continues to innovate industries and having recently stepped down as CEO of RG's biggest investment, Amigo Loans, is now focusing on investing in the next wave of UK entrepreneurs.

"We start and fund innovative, technology-focussed businesses which we believe have the potential to significantly improve outcomes and reduce costs for ordinary people in three key sectors: Education; Housing; Non-Standard Financial Services" 

James has 7 children and in his leisure time he likes to challenge himself as in 2010 and 2011 leading 10 employees successfully up Mt. Kilimanjaro