Brian James

From education through to Brian’s most recent role as Chief Executive Officer with Cedarmore Housing Association Brian has had the opportunity to support and enable vulnerable people in our society. The first half of his career was with M&S in Human Resources during which time he volunteered in school and college governance with an interest in special educational needs. Together as a family they grew through fostering and adoption supporting children into adult life, with support. This led Brian into the role of Chair at Advocacy for All. Other volunteering roles developed including sitting on the local adoption panel.

The second half of Brian’s career has been as a leader in the not-for-profit sector developing and providing community, support and accommodation for older people. Working for three different organisations over the years he has led on culture change, leadership development, digitalisation, mergers and strategic planning. Most recently as CEO for Cedarmore Housing Association (CHA) Brian is leading on strategic development and developing partnerships with the Local Authority. CHA has a residential home and three locations across the borough for sheltered housing.

Other experiences include being an Expert by Experience for CQC due to his experience of living with young adults with a range of disabilities. Brian is also chair of a local charity providing leisure opportunities for children and young people with a disability.

Brian’s strengths are stamina, high energy, ability to motivate and a passion for supporting and enabling vulnerable people in our society.