James Burns

Senior Technical Director and Multi-Platform Games-as-a-Service expert specializing in scaling secure, commercially viable gaming services across console, PC, and mobile platforms. With over two decades in online technologies - from early PlayStation Network development through modern cloud services - I bring deep technical expertise in transforming ambitious gaming visions into reliable, scalable services.

Professional Experience

Senior Technical Director

Jagex

May 2019 - Present
  • Engineering Craft Leadership
  • Multi-Platform Games-as-a-Service architecture
  • Cyber Security risk management and secure development practices
  • Commercial optimization (CapEx/OpEx) for game development
  • Pragmatic technical leadership and strategy
  • Cross-platform service scaling and integration
  • Balanced risk-aware development approaches

Technical Director

Splash Damage

2016 - 2019
  • Led multiple projects using Unreal Engine 4
  • Managed project roadmapping and team coaching
  • Headed online programming initiatives

Lead Online Programmer

FreeStyleGames

2012 - 2016
  • Led online engineering for Guitar Hero Live
  • Managed team of 4 engineers across multiple platforms (PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, WiiU & iOS)

Senior Online Programmer

Evolution Studios

2008 - 2012
  • Led online development for MotorStorm Apocalypse
  • Implemented pioneering Cross Buy commerce systems for PS3 and PS Vita
  • Senior engineer on MotorStorm Pacific Rift & MotorStorm RC

Engineer

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe

2001 - 2007
  • PlayStation Network Support
  • Developer support PS2, PS3, PSP
  • Special Projects - OPS2M Demo Disc, Network Access Disc

Technical Skills & Certifications

Platform Expertise

PS5 PS4 PS3 Xbox Series X|S Xbox One Xbox 360 Switch Wii U iOS Android PC/Steam Mac OS Linux

Certifications

  • ✓ Certified Scrum Product Owner
  • ✓ Level 1 Award in Coaching Badminton
  • ✓ Agile Development Practices
  • ✓ Unity Fundamentals

Reading List

Books that have shaped my leadership philosophy and approach to team building

Turn the Ship Around!

David Marquet

A true story of turning followers into leaders through intent-based leadership.

Leadership Development
View on Amazon

Creativity, Inc.

Ed Catmull

Overcoming the unseen forces that stand in the way of true inspiration.

Creative Leadership
View on Amazon

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team

Patrick Lencioni

A leadership fable about building a cohesive, effective team.

Team Building
View on Amazon

Leadership Philosophy

"Turn the Ship Around" revolutionized my approach to empowering teams through intent-based leadership.

Creative Management

"Creativity, Inc." provided invaluable insights into fostering innovation while managing creative teams.

Team Dynamics

"Five Dysfunctions" offers practical frameworks I've successfully applied in building high-performing teams.

The book links above are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Get in Touch

LinkedIn