Founder Story

I come from humble beginnings, with an unremarkable early academic record – Things were not looking good for the young Nick James.

This trajectory changed when at age 14 I found my passion for business and technology.  With the support of a remarkable teacher and hard working parents, University became a realistic prospect and reality.

After graduation, a successful 30-year career in consulting and industry followed including multiple pivots to stay relevant, usually supported by a coach, mentor or great manager.  From Oracle Developer to Project Manager, Project Manager to Program Manager, Waterfall to Agile, Tech to Business, Consultant to Coach and now embracing AI – Change has been the only constant. 

 I loved the variety and opportunities consulting provided and I was most fulfilled when helping others to succeed. 

In 2020 BCG allowed me to become a full time coach for 3 months applying the International Coaching Federation (ICF) approach. I loved enabling BCG colleagues from the most junior Associate to senior Managing Directors & Partners, both individually and in teams – I decided that one day I would become a coach.

In 2024 I had the chance to follow my dreams again, founding Eighty20, becoming a coach, senior advisor and continuing transformation leadership.

In 2025 I became an ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC), I also completed team coaching and advanced individual coach training.

Why Eighty20?

• Firstly I hate waste,  love quality and real impact. With an 80:20 approach, constantly testing & learning; waste is kept to a minimum, customer is in focus and amazing products are delivered
• Secondly, I decided to give more back to society. Twenty percent of coaching time is donated pro-bono to people and organizations who positively contribute to society but lack the means to pay
• Thirdly, as an advisor and transformer I draw on all of my experience, frameworks, research skills and professional network to deliver success in a lean way

How do I tick?  Listen to me on Spotify – The Simple Habits of Fearless Leaders