James Bell BA LLB(Syd) has been a Fellow since 1996. During his own studies, he read Arts with majors in Government and Music, as well as Law, during which time he was a resident of the College himself. He undertook many extracurricular roles, including Treasurer of the Students’ Club, Cellar Master, Editor of Pauline and Producer of Victoriana, so is very familiar with the day-to-day life of the St. Paul’s community.

After graduating in 1976, James practised as a lawyer for 20 years at the national law firm of Blake Dawson Waldron. He spent ten years as a partner, with three years as Head of the Banking and Finance Division of the Sydney office.

In 1995, James established his own firm, specialising in commercial, entertainment and media law. His clients ranged from major television networks to established singers, actors, writers and producers, as well as general commercial clients.

James served five years as a board member of an ASX-listed public company, chairing the Audit Committee, Corporate Governance Committee and the Nominations and Remuneration Committee during this time. He has also served as the Director of a start-up company that entered into joint venture arrangements with Chongqing Tianfu Coal Industry Co Ltd in order to commercialise gas extraction technology in Chongqing, China.

He is currently the Chairman of a UK-based company that is seeking to commercialise a domestic waste disposal machine that converts glass, metal and plastic containers into recyclable raw materials.

Alongside James’ professional endeavours, he has carried out a grazing business at Goulburn since the 1970s and a grazing property in New Zealand. He has served as Director of the NSW Polo Association and President of the Goulburn Polo Club. James is currently the Director of multiple charitable and community foundations and associations.