James Ainscough

James Ainscough OBE has a diverse work experience spanning various leadership roles in the music industry. James currently serves as the Chief Executive of the Royal Albert Hall, a position they started in May 2023. Prior to this, they were the CEO of Help Musicians UK for a period of five years, from June 2018 to May 2023.

In 2018, James worked as a Business Consultant specializing in strategy, performance, and finance.

Their earlier experience includes roles at the Royal Albert Hall, where they served as the Chief Operating Officer from January 2015 to December 2017 and as the Director of Finance and Administration from January 2008 to December 2014.

Before joining the Royal Albert Hall, James held the positions of Group Accountant and European Finance Operations Director at Williams Lea from August 2004 to January 2008. Prior to that, they worked as a Commercial Analyst and Financial Controller at Warner Music Group from November 1999 to July 2004.

Overall, James Ainscough OBE has an extensive background in leadership, finance, and strategy within the music industry.

James Ainscough OBE completed their education at the University of Cambridge, where they earned a BA Hons in Economics from 1993 to 1996. Prior to that, they attended York Sixth Form College from 1990 to 1992. Their secondary education was completed at Millthorpe Comprehensive from 1985 to 1990.