James Smith

James is the APAC Lead for Populous Consulting, a forward-thinking, design-led business planning consultancy that’s redefining the success of venues and events across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific. ​By linking strategy, experience and commercial drivers and limitations, they uncover ways to make spaces more engaging and appealing to the people who use them.

James has over 20 year’s experience leading businesses through profitable growth with extensive know-how in strategy, business development, customer experience, stakeholder management, commercialization, cultivating relationships and working with and leading cross-functional teams.

James has been exposed to diverse industries that include sport and entertainment, customer experience design, digital transformation, creative design and technology, major events, sponsorship, media sales and the music industry.

James brings a range of skills and expertise with strategic and diverse thinking that has an impact on sport and entertainment from a macro level delivering a focused and integrated approach to fan experience and commercialization.