After graduating in 2016, James Benson-King secured a job at JP Morgan. He quickly climbed the corporate ladder and became Vice President of Prime Brokerage Settlements. But he had a different dream: to cycle from Alaska to Argentina.
James’ epic journey changed his outlook and inspired him to move away from the corporate world and embrace adventure. He now focuses on his career as a public speaker and content creator.
Read as James shares fond memories of his time at Bath and how he’s preparing for his next challenge.
Why did you choose to study at Bath?
From the moment I arrived on campus, I knew Bath was where I wanted to study. There was a buzz around the University that I just loved, and Bath had the perfect balance between academics and extra-curricular activities. Sport was a big part of my life, and I wanted my university experience to involve that, which I knew Bath could do.
Did you have a particular career in mind when you chose your course?
Prior to university, I had no career in mind, which is why I chose to study Mathematics. I knew it would provide a platform to launch into a variety of different career paths.
Can you tell us about your experience of studying here? Any favourite memories, or places to go on campus and in the city?
I loved my time studying at Bath, whether that was living in the campus bubble during my first year or down in Oldfield Park thereafter.
The changes on campus throughout the seasons always drew me in and celebrating these with the Snow and Summer Balls made it even more special.
Brendon Court accommodation will always hold a special place in my heart. It was my home in first year and I returned in my second and third year as Freshers Crew and Captain!
Were you a part of any societies or sports clubs during your time at Bath? What did you enjoy most about them?
I played for the American Football team while I studied at Bath and was also a part of the committee. Playing the sport was something I loved, but outside of the game, it felt like a family. We supported each other through both the good and challenging parts of university.
Describe your career journey since graduating. What is a typical day like in your current role?
After graduating, I spent a few years travelling and working around Asia and Australia. When I returned to the UK, I started working at JP Morgan. After three years, I was promoted to Vice President of Prime Brokerage Settlements EMEA. I managed a team of 20 and was responsible for settling equity and fixed income trades for JP Morgan’s prime brokerage clients across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
After two years as a VP, I decided to pursue a lifelong dream: cycling from Alaska to Argentina. It was an incredible journey, cycling over 20,000 miles and ultimately changing my life. Since returning, I have changed career paths, and I now work as an event speaker, adventurer and content creator. My next big goal is to become the first person to cycle across Antarctica!
As I am self-employed, a typical day for me involves wearing many different hats. For my speaking business I will spend time reaching out to potential companies, schools or universities that may want to hire me. I also spend time practicing the topics I speak on and attending networking events.
As a content creator I spend a lot of time video editing and liaising with brands I am an ambassador for or would like to work with. Finally, as I work towards my Antarctica dream, I spend a lot of time training. Typically, yoga in the morning and then a strength or cycling session in the evening.
How did your studies help to develop you, professionally and/or personally?
One key takeaway was how mathematics strengthened my analytical skills. Even in situations where I may not have the most technical knowledge, I was able to thrive purely because I could break down complex problems and analyse the information I had. This ability is directly linked to my degree and the logical thinking it instils.
I took part in a placement year, which was an incredible experience. The support the University offered in helping me secure the opportunity was outstanding, and the placement itself taught me invaluable skills. Returning to my final year after this experience gave me a completely different perspective. My approach was much more structured and career focused.
What advice would you give to prospective students thinking about studying your course at Bath?
For those considering mathematics, I would say to make full use of the amazing support system at the university. I had been told that the biggest academic step up is from college or sixth form to university, and for me that was true.
I struggled a lot in my first year, but the support from my peers, tutors and lecturers was always there when I needed it. Don’t be afraid to ask for help! It made a huge difference for me.
Respond
