From graduate scheme to group CEO in 11 years
James won while running a £20m regional business for Mitie. He went on to co-found Emerging Workplace Leaders and now leads Churchill Group as CEO.
James Bradley
Regional Manager, Mitie Technical FM
when they won
- CEO, Churchill Group
- EWL co-founder
- YLOTY judge 2019 to 2021
When James won
- A University of Birmingham civil engineering graduate who joined Mitie's graduate scheme in 2012.
- Ran a region of 25 clients, £20m of business and 350 people, with clients including Warner Bros, Allianz, DfID and HS1.
Where it's taken them
- 2017
Joined Churchill Group as a director, leading corporate development.
- 2019
Co-founded Emerging Workplace Leaders and co-chaired it until 2021, coordinating the award and judging it from 2019 to 2021.
- By 2024
CEO of Churchill Group.
- 2026
Led Churchill's acquisition of Principle Cleaning Services.
He told his story on the EWL podcast in "From graduate to CEO in 11 years".
“I was humbled to win the award, especially given the amazing finalists, however I was very proud, and grateful to everyone that has supported my career. There have been many amazing people I've had the pleasure of learning from and working alongside. Thank you!”
James Bradley, Young Leader of the Year 2015