James is a multi-disciplined creative and awarded film maker. He is the Managing Partner and co-founder of Common Ventures, a creative consultancy that solves difficult problems for complex organisations.
James leads several key client partnerships, and has overseen the growth of Common Ventures from its inception. He loves working with businesses and brands to use creative as a force multiplier, especially focused on challengers with big ambitions.
A creative by trade, James’ love of making extends into the narrative and feature world as well – with his debut documentary, Volcano Man, winning Best Documentary at the Australian Writers’ Guild in 2024. The film documents Crawley’s complex relationship with his eccentric father Richard, as they grapple with life and loss, using the language of film to communicate and bring them closer together.
Outside of advertising and film, James attempts to keep his kids alive, and is a frustrated engineer; currently converting a classic gas guzzling VW Kombi to have an electric drivetrain.
