James Hockney

Marketing Operations Manager @ Northern|Marketing & Advertising

United Kingdom

About

I'm a versatile marketer, currently channelling my inner train geek as Marketing Operations manager at Northern Trains, driven by strategic thinking and measurable results. With years of experience leading high-performing teams and deploying significant budgets, I specialise in building scalable operational models, optimising processes, and driving marketing effectiveness across complex organisations. My career spans diverse sectors including Transport, Finance, FMCG, Sports, Consumer Tech, Sustainability, Not-for-Profit, and Motorsport , where I’ve shaped brand strategy, delivered integrated advertising campaigns, and championed marketing excellence. I’ve had the privilege of working with some brilliant brands along the way, including FIFA, Hisense, BP, Northern Gas, Coryton, Boutinot Wines, and of course, Northern Trains. Always aiming to make marketing work harder and smarter.

Experience

  • Northern (Full-time · 3 yrs 9 mos)
    • Marketing Operations Manager & Studio Lead
      Apr 2026 - Present · 3 mos

    • Marketing Operations Manager
      Oct 2022 - May 2026 · 3 yrs 8 mos

  • Future Leaders Committee at CBI (Confederation of British Industry)
    Feb 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 5 mos

    Part of the CBIs future leader committee. Helping to ensure a broader range of views are included in the CBIs consultation and strategic process.

  • Member Board Of Trustees at Reach Beyond
    Oct 2019 - Jan 2024 · 4 yrs 4 mos

    Trustee board member advising on marketing strategy and general governance.

  • Digital Producer at Perfect Storm Agency
    Mar 2020 - Nov 2022 · 2 yrs 9 mos

  • Digital Account Manager at Grapple
    Jul 2018 - Mar 2020 · 1 yr 9 mos

    Grapple is a strategy driven, design led experience agency that exists to build better futures for our clients. As digital account manager, I work with an incredibly talented bunch to drive exceptional brand reach and growth for our clients through a variety of channels.