His early love of the sea has developed into a deep passion for Scotland’s maritime and industrial heritage.
“When the shipyards went into contraction in the 60s and 70s traditional shipbuilding skills were lost. There is now only one operational Clyde steamer, the PS Waverley. It’s one of the biggest tourist attractions in Scotland and is a wonderful ambassador for our country.”
He is also involved with the restoration of the TS Queen Mary steamer and, more recently, he has closed a chapter in his charity career after stepping down as Chair of Dundee Heritage Trust after an exciting and impactful 3 year term.
His early love of the sea has developed into a deep passion for Scotland’s maritime and industrial heritage.“
When the shipyards went into contraction in the 60s and 70s traditional shipbuilding skills were lost. There is now only one operational Clyde steamer, the PS Waverley. It’s one of the biggest tourist attractions in Scotland and is a wonderful ambassador for our country.”
He is also involved with the restoration of the TS Queen Mary steamer and, more recently, he has begun a new chapter in his charity career as Chair of Dundee Heritage Trust.
At this stage in his career Jim is keen to explore new avenues and says he is thrilled to be appointed Chair of the Board of Scottish National Ballet.
Another area of interest is education and training and Jim is always keen to encourage disadvantaged and disengaged young people to fulfil their potential. During his year as President of ICAS he enthusiastically backed the ICAS Foundation, which provides funds for young people from poorer backgrounds to pursue their professional education.
Throughout his City career Jim saw at first hand many inspiring charitable activities undertaken by successful companies and providing support for communities, the disadvantaged and the vulnerable. In particular, he was strongly influenced by ICAP’s annual charity day when everyone dressed up, celebrities visited and a day’s revenue was donated to charity. Since it started 27 years ago around £150 million has been donated to change the lives of thousands of people.
In all his organisations, Jim has actively encouraged charitable work and been a keen supporter of culture and the arts. In his capacity as Chairman of Virgin Money plc Jim hosted the Virgin Money Fireworks concert which marked the closing of the 2019 Edinburgh Festival.
