James earned his LL.B. from Keio University in Tokyo and an LL.M. in European Law from Leiden University, where his studies focused on EU Institutional Law, EU External Relations, and the legal aspects of European Foreign Policy.
Prior to joining BDW, James worked at a law firm in Tokyo, advising local governments and multi-national companies on Privacy and Data Protection, Intellectual Property and Medical Law. In addition, he has substantial experience in legal and political research through positions at leading policy and research institutes.
James maintains a particular interest in European Trade Law and the influence of geopolitics on international regulations, which continue to shape his area of focus.