For many years, James Miles has been a key member of the Kingfisher Lighting Family. With a variety of expertise in different departments, he has played a crucial role in the development of the business and his contributions are what helps our success today.

In addition to managing the technical team, James is heavily involved in product development and is often involved on technical boards for industry professionals such as the LIA and ILP.

What is your job title?

Technical Manager

How long have you worked at Kingfisher Lighting?

20 years

Have you ever had a different role within Kingfisher Lighting?

Originally, I was a part of the Distribution Sales Department back when they were using fax machines! From there, I progressed to the Lighting Design Team where we worked with paper drawings and still used manual calculations in some cases. I completed my formal Lighting Design qualifications but then moved to the Technical Department to work on product development and afterwards became the Technical Manager.

What does your current job role entail?

As part of the Product Team, I have a lot of involvement in development as well as special products requests. I also oversee testing of products as well as the general operation of the Technical Team. I also help provide CPD training for a variety of customers to help them expand their knowledge on all things lighting.

What is your favourite thing about being a part of the Kingfisher Family?

Personally, I think it’s how Kingfisher encourages the growth and development of staff. After witnessing the company grow over the years, it’s refreshing to have an environment where we encourage personal and professional development allowing people to grow and flourish within the business.

What is your greatest professional achievement to date at Kingfisher?

For me, it’s creating the scheme design for Liverpool FC (despite being a Manchester United supporter!). It was one of my first 3D lighting designs and we utilised bespoke columns and bracketry with Italian luminaires for a modern aesthetic.

What are the values that drive you?

Quality and Improvement

I believe that doing the best job possible is a must and I don’t like knowing something could be done better but isn’t. Quality is at the heart of all we do, and we are constantly seeking new ways to improve processes, components and even products.

Give us a fun fact about yourself?

I am a member of The Worshipful Company of Lightmongers which is a respected membership in the lighting community. This allows me the Freedom of the City of London which includes the ancient right to drive sheep across London Bridge into the heart of London (although they don’t seem to want to let me do this!).

Favourite Quote

"It's easier to ask forgiveness than it is to get permission" - Rear Admiral Grace Hopper

What’s the most interesting thing you can see out your window?

I can see many columns ranging from 3m to 15m in our yard.

Back to all news