Jim left Newton Rigg Agriculture and National School of Forestry in 1989, joining the Forestry Commission in Argyll in harvesting and forest management. Returning to Cumbria as FC Woodland Officer, working with farmers and landowners, advising on woodland creation and management over 26 years. Jim led the 2018 Forestry Investment Zone Defra pilot, exploring the integration of trees, woodland, and forestry into the farmed landscape of Northeast Cumbria, developing relationships and novel approaches to incorporate trees on farms. Currently, Jim is the Forestry Commission Agroforestry Advisor, promoting and championing this important integrated land management approach for farmers and foresters alike.