Committed to delivering great service, James Abdool is driven by solving client problems and adding value to businesses. His skills lie in the digital media, technology and automotive sectors, with a focus on client relationships and customer experience.

Having graduated in Marketing and Management Science in 1994, he joined the family business which worked to provide in-store music to restaurants in the UK. After 5 years of working in marketing, sales and key account management, he was appointed Managing Director. He helped grow the business internationally in retail, hospitality and leisure sectors, and later led the company through sale in 2007.

James then found his home in the Digital Out of Home sector running EnQii, a SaaS based content management software company for EMEA before setting up the International operations for PlayNetwork Inc. Following his stint at EnQii, he helped shape the sales strategy for MediaZest Plc delivering innovative digital experiences for major retailers and brands. He then moved to global design and consultancy Arcadis as the Partner heading up Digital Experience and working on innovation, technology and content strategies and delivery, across their client base. He later joined Chirp as Chief Commercial Officer to help the team drive their growth globally with one of the most exciting technologies in the IoT world. As Senior Vice President UK & Europe, James now leads Fortude’s expansion into EMEA.

In 2013 James retrained as an Executive Coach and spend time coaching key executives in a growing number of companies and roles. He is also a Mental Health First Aider with a keen interest in mental health in the workplace.

He also enjoy a great balance of work and family life, and takes on coaching and charity work during his downtime. In 2003 James served a 3 year non-executive term with the NHS, and he continues to work with the homeless and disadvantaged at Chair of Crawley Open House. Formerly a Governor at Copthorne Prep School, he also works with other local and national charities and takes part in regular fundraising challenges.

An all-round networking professional, James’ passion lies in delivering exceptional customer service with a digital pulse.