James started his career at a Big 4 firm where he spent 5 years in the tax line of service. Initially he worked as a generalist in the corporation tax team and latterly in the deals tax team, focusing on real estate transactions.
Whilst in these roles James acquired a deep understanding of corporation tax, stamp duty and stamp duty land tax and advised on a range of matters including group reorganisations, fund structuring, vendor/purchaser due diligence, UK real estate investment trusts and the fund exemption election.
James joined Smailes Goldie in January 2023 where he has continued to advise on corporation tax related matters in addition to broadening his knowledge base to include personal and inheritance tax. James enjoys the ever-changing nature of the tax environment and the opportunities and challenges this brings to his clients.
James is a chartered accountant and a member of The Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales.
Outside of work James enjoys DIY and gardening.