James Kent
James Kent is Founder & Principal Consultant at The Uplift Group
James is a seasoned entrepreneur and consultant with over a decade of experience in the technology sector, specialising in AI and robotics automation. As the founder of Xihelm, a formerly thriving agrifood startup focused on AI-driven automation for packing and harvesting, he gained critical insights into the challenges and opportunities within the industry. Despite the company's eventual closure, his leadership was marked by innovative approaches to complex problems, driving forward the boundaries of automation technology.
Following his tenure at Xihelm, James established The Uplift Group, where he now offers expert advisory services in AI implementation, operational efficiency optimization, and strategic risk management. His consultancy aims to prevent companies from embarking on costly and ineffective technological ventures by leveraging his extensive background in pattern recognition, compliance, and project management.
James holds a deep passion for solving intricate problems and has a proven track record of securing over $10 million in venture capital and multiple successful InnovateUK and DEFRA grants. His strategic acumen and firsthand experience managing high-stakes projects make him a trusted advisor in the tech community.
In addition to his professional pursuits, James is an avid enthusiast of outdoor activities, including jogging, skiing, and sailing, which complement his dynamic approach to business and life. He is also a dedicated family man, deeply involved in the lives of his wife, Rachel, and their two children, balancing his ambitious career goals with a vibrant family life.
James' consultancy is not just about steering businesses away from potential failures; it's about guiding them towards sustainable success through innovative automation solutions that are both effective and compliant with current standards. His work is driven by a conviction that technology can and should be used to improve efficiency and profitability without compromising integrity or safety.