Meet the team
Chief Executive Officer
James Turnbull
Leading SMSU to deliver an outstanding experience for every student at St Mary’s University.
What James looks after
- Strategy
- Operations
- The staff team
- Commercial operations and services
- Partnerships across the University
- Engagement and inclusion across campus
About James
The role
James Turnbull is the Chief Executive Officer of St Mary’s Students’ Union (SMSU), responsible for leading the organisation in delivering an outstanding experience for every student at St Mary’s University. He oversees the Union’s strategy, operations, and staff team, ensuring that all activity reflects SMSU’s mission to represent, support, and empower students.
Working with the Officers
Working closely with the elected Officer team, James helps shape the Union’s long-term direction, strengthen partnerships across the University, and ensure that students’ voices are heard and acted upon at every level. From managing commercial operations and services to driving engagement and inclusion across campus, he is dedicated to creating a Union that truly enhances student life.
What James is passionate about
James is passionate about building a strong, student-centred organisation — one that champions community, celebrates diversity, and helps every student make the most of their time at St Mary’s.
