As one of the founder members of BMR, James has been involved as a director from the very beginning.

BMR has evolved from being just an idea to fully functioning co-operative which after over 30 years has developed into a highly significant business, influencing many other businesses. James has had two terms as chairman which he says was a pleasure as well as being very challenging at times. But he says that it was also very rewarding to see BMR rise to the challenges and develop to provide new services for its diverse membership.

James is the fourth generation to farm at Morebattle Tofts and Clifton on Bowmont near Kelso . This is a family partnership, with the fifth generation now involved, trading under Playfair Farms. On the farm they breed Aberdeen-Angus and Beef Shorthorn cattle and Hill North Country Cheviot Sheep as well as growing barley, oats, wheat and several forage crops.

Currently, James is Chairman of the Scottish Machinery Ring Association and has previously been a Vice President of the European Machinery Ring Association. He is also Chairman of Lothian and Borders NFU and vice Chairman of Border Union Agricultural Society.