In our latest blog, we chat with our Head of Client Services at One Nexus Aftermarket UK, James Smith. Not only is James in charge of managing our Aftermarket client relations across the globe, but he’s also a keen runner and avid foodie! Find out all about his role and his passions outside of work below!

Hi, James. Can you tell us about your role at One Nexus?
I’m the Head of Client Services for One Nexus Aftermarket UK. My day-to-day role involves managing the interests of our clients across the globe. Essentially, I try to make sure that the right information is in the right place at the right time to keep staff engaged and dealers and retailers informed. This might mean working on email marketing, creating flyers or brochures, and handling promotions. I also get involved in business development depending on the client relationship.

What is your experience in the automotive industry?
Before joining One Nexus, my previous experiences with the automotive industry had been relatively indirect. I used to work at an incentive company where I managed programs for VW brands. This gave me insight into how things work behind the scenes in car and part sales. That was the first time I got into the nuts and bolts of automotive, learning more about what goes on in the background. And I have not looked back since!

What was it about One Nexus that made you want to get involved?
It was partly ‘right place, right time’. I’d applied for a role at One Nexus a few years back. Then, six to nine months later, they called me when an account management role opened up and asked if I was still interested. I was, of course… Plus, I was looking for a new challenge professionally, so it worked out perfectly. I was grateful for the opportunity to work somewhere smaller but with significant multinational clients where my ideas could make an impact. I felt like I could make a difference at One Nexus, which was exactly what I was looking for.

How has your journey with One Nexus been so far?
I’m loving my time with One Nexus. I’ve been with the business for nearly seven years. As I mentioned, I initially joined as an Account Manager, but over time new roles have opened up that allowed me to take on additional responsibilities, which I love. Since then, I’ve moved into a more senior role, where I am involved in managing the operational side of things.

What would you say you enjoy most about your job?
What I enjoy most is the variety— no two days are the same. Every manufacturer we work with operates a little differently, so there’s always something new going on. For example, one day I might be building a website, and the next I could be involved in a marketing push or a product launch. I also value the long-term relationships we’ve built with our clients. We’ve worked with some of them for more than a decade. Lately, I’ve had more chances to work with new clients, which is a nice reminder of everything we’ve accomplished and what we can achieve in the future.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing?
I have a few hobbies that I love doing outside of work. I started running during COVID, mostly because I wanted to balance out my love of snacks! Outside of that, I enjoy spending time with my kids, going for long walks with them, hiking and foraging. I don’t have as much time as I’d like for some of my other hobbies, but I’m trying to read more regularly, aiming for a book a month. I’ve also started taking a few short city breaks recently, which I really enjoy. I like to explore new places, try different foods, and see the sights—mainly a mix of eating good food and seeing some interesting old stuff.

Finally, what is one thing you would like readers to know about yourself or One Nexus that they might not know already?
I think it’s easy for people to overlook how adaptable and experienced we are at One Nexus. We have strong, long-term relationships with clients, and we’re constantly improving the ways we serve them. Personally, I’d also say that my journey to this role wasn’t exactly direct—I didn’t set out to work in automotive, but I’ve found my place here and truly value the work. There’s a personal touch to what we do, and it’s a place where I can genuinely make an impact. Oh, and I make a great soft-boiled egg…