Dr James Harris PhD,RM
James is a policy adviser at the Nursing and Midwifery Council and a clinical academic midwife with experience spanning clinical practice, national policy, research, and education.
In his current role, he contributes to the development of regulatory policy and professional standards, supporting safe, effective, and equitable midwifery practice across the UK. His work focuses on translating evidence, data, and lived experience into policy that strengthens public protection and improves outcomes for women, birthing people, and families.
James has held a range of senior roles across the maternity system, including leadership positions within integrated care systems and national roles within the Chief Midwifery Office and the National Maternity and Perinatal Audit. He has led major programmes of work focused on reducing inequalities and improving the quality and safety of maternity services, including the development and implementation of the Maternity Reducing Inequalities Care Bundle.
A trained qualitative and quantitative researcher, James has published extensively and has a strong track record in implementation and improvement science. He is particularly passionate about co-design, cultural safety, and ensuring that services are shaped by both evidence and the voices of those who use them.
James brings a collaborative and system-focused approach to his work, with a commitment to reducing inequalities and supporting the continuous improvement of maternity care.
