James Smith

UK based CEO, with FTSE 250 and private equity backed experience. Expertise in major strategic transformation and capital markets. Telecoms, energy and infrastructure experience. CFO and investment banking background.

United Kingdom

About

Group CEO of TalkTalk Group as well as CEO of the Group’s network wholesale business, PXC. Led the group through a £2bn balance sheet restructuring and recapitalisation and now taking the business on the next stage of its strategic journey. Joined TalkTalk Group as CFO in early 2023, as we demerged the Consumer and Network Wholesale businesses to create TalkTalk and PXC. Previously CFO for nine years at FTSE 250 listed Capricorn Energy PLC (formerly Cairn Energy PLC). Strong track record of driving and implementing strategic change, responsibility for all finance functions, investor and external stakeholder engagement, M&A, risk management and ESG. Prior to becoming a CFO, a 16 year investment banking career focusing on M&A, ECM and debt financing in energy, infrastructure and regulated industries, working at Rothschild and before that Merrill Lynch.

Experience

  • TalkTalk (On-site)
    • Group CEO
      Sep 2024 - Present · 1 yr 10 mos

    • Group CFO
      Apr 2023 - Sep 2024 · 1 yr 6 mos

  • Chief Executive Officer at PXC
    Sep 2024 - Present · 1 yr 10 mos

  • Chief Financial Officer at Capricorn Energy PLC
    Feb 2014 - Apr 2023 · 9 yrs 3 mos

  • Director at Rothschild & Co
    Jan 2008 - Jan 2014 · 6 yrs 1 mo

  • Vice President at MERRILL LYNCH INTERNATIONAL
    Jan 2005 - Jan 2008 · 3 yrs 1 mo