James has been a lecturer in adult education, Head of BBC Radio Scotland and Controller BBC Radio 4. His public service posts include Chair of the Scottish Arts Council, Chair of the Scottish Cultural Commission and founder-Chair of Edinburgh Unesco City of Literature.
James has also held non-executive directorships in the private sector, including a current interest in Franklin Rae Communications. He is a member of Court at Napier University.
He was a Civil Service Commissioner between 2001 and 2005.
