Getting to know... James Barrington-Madders

In the latest instalment of Bdaily’s Getting to know... feature, which looks at the person behind the business profile, James Barrington-Madders, co-founder of London-based employee wellness platform incentifi, talks about reaching his full potential, building a VIP travel business in Las Vegas and the joy he takes from helping make a difference in the workplace.

We know you as the founder of incentifi, but who is the person behind the title? Tell us a little about what makes you tick…

I want the version of me in ten years to know I genuinely pushed for my full potential – in fitness, in business, in everything. 

No one hands you a blank cheque in this world. 

You either build the result you want, or you live with the regret of not trying.

Did you always want to work in your industry?

Not at all. I spent 15 years in nightlife and VIP hospitality in Las Vegas, which gave me an incredible life and the chance to meet all kinds of people. 

But I’ve always been health conscious, so shifting into the health and wellness space was a natural progression. 

The only real difference is that instead of going to bed at 5am, I’m waking up at that time now!

What’s the best bit about your job? And the worst?

The best part is seeing a HR director or chief executive’s eyes light up when they realise the impact incentifi will have on their workplace. 

The hardest part has to be raising investment. 

I can negotiate deals all day, but asking people for money has not been something I enjoy. 

It’s been a journey!

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?

When I moved to Las Vegas, I arrived with just $920 to my name. 

Over time I built one of the city’s most recognised VIP travel and hospitality companies, which was featured in multiple publications and secured contracts with major companies to manage their events across the US.

How do you relax outside of work?

I’m originally from Hove, so if I can get a walk along the seafront, it brings me back to my childhood.  

I am also a huge film nerd. I try and watch as many films at the cinema as possible. 

What makes London such a great place to live and work?

The energy in London is unmatched. 

There’s something about this city that makes me want to leave my mark. I thrive on a fast pace, and London delivers that in every way. 

With incentifi being a tech/health and wellness platform, launching here feels like the perfect fit.

Tell us something about you we didn’t know...

I have been collecting fragrances since I was 15; I currently have more than 80 in my collection! 

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