James Proctor

Global Technology, Local Communities

Name: James Proctor
Age: 31
Born: Kirkcaldy
Lived in Scotland: All his life, apart from a couple of years in Canada and England

James Proctor is passionate about Scotland but that doesn't mean he won’t admit it can have its downsides.

He gives a wry smile: "Maybe that makes me a typical Scot, although of course I’d argue that there's no such thing.

"We've always been good at judging ourselves unfavourably against others but we're changing. The global economy has changed and we're changing with it."

Get James on the subject of Scotland's history, its politics, economy, football…any subject in fact, and he's got a something to say. And despite first impressions, he's actually hugely optimistic about Scotland's future.

Parliament

"Getting our own parliament means we have to take responsibility for own actions – as a nation, as individuals and as a government.

"Historically we've been a pragmatic, diligent nation. We're realistic, even risk-averse, but we've always taken the attitude that if you're going to do it, do it right."

Global economy

"It's stood us in good stead for hundreds of years. Now we're learning to operate in a new global economy and use different skills. The job I do - and it's the same with most of my friends - these opportunities are only available to us because of the new economy."

James keeps in constant contact with colleagues and clients across the UK, flying regularly to London and zipping about Scotland by air, rail and road. And between times, he uses broadband Internet to stay in touch.

Football community

"My job is to work with volunteers at football clubs, getting them organised. Football clubs are an underused asset in the community. Supporters Direct helps them fulfil their potential. So far, we've set up 27 supporters' trusts across Scotland.

"I made a positive decision to stay in Scotland but my job would be unfeasible without email and the Internet. So I suppose global technology is creating and building communities."

He sits up: "This is the kind of thing I’m talking about - Scotland has grown up. We're a modern society. Now it's our responsibility to make the most of the opportunities we've got."

Insider Info:

James says: "Scratch the surface and you may be surprised by the vibrancy underneath. Try the Barrowlands in Glasgow."