James Thorne

Assistant Project Manager

Before embarking on a career in project management, James obtained a degree in Business Management and Marketing from 2018 to 2021 at University the West of England. Completing modules in finance, global marketing & modern management techniques. During this period, James also spent time coaching for Bristol Rovers. Primarily focused on outreach and development some of the most diverse areas in Bristol.

James joined SmithBrewer in 2021 as a Junior Procurement Project Manager, a hybrid role that involved being responsible for sourcing Flannels stores throughout the UK, while also liaising with the project team to aid project delivery.

In 2022, James completed the APM Project Management qualification. Learning the fundamentals and skills of successful project management. Alongside these studies, James was mentored by a couple of very experienced project managers which involved playing a major role in the delivery of Sports Direct Islazul. This store was a first foray for SmithBrewer into European markets and involved complex logistical coordination.

Following this development, James took on a new role as a specialist Project Manager for the Sports Direct brand in 2023. Taking on ownership of the project lifecycle for the evolving Sports Direct concepts. Over the next two years, he delivered a variety of stores in the UK including flagship stores in Cardiff, Meadowhall & Manchester Trafford Centre.