James started his career in adult education working as an extra-mural lecturer for the WEA and for Glasgow University. He also worked for four years as a lecturer in what is now Glasgow Caledonian University. He joined the BBC in 1975 as an adult education officer working on adult literacy and then on intellectual handicap.  He became a radio producer and eventually eventually Head of BBC Radio Scotland winning the Sony title UK Station of the Year for the network.

As Controller BBC Radio 4 he reformed the network producing with his team an entirely new schedule.  The new programmes subsequently won a record 6 gold Sony awards in one year and eight other silver and bronze awards. . His public service posts include Chair of the Scottish Arts Council, Chair of the Scottish Cultural Commission, founder-Chair of Edinburgh Unesco City of Literature and founder of Glasgow UNESCO City of Music
James was a Civil Service Commissioner between 2001 and 2005 and again 2007-8.

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 Edinburgh Napier University and Chair of the British Council Scotland.  He has three honorary doctorates.

James is married with three sons and three grandsons.