James Child is a Chartered Surveyor, working as an Associate Director at CBRE UK. Additionally, he is famed as one of the most revered Referees in the Rugby League, having officiated over 333 games in the Super League. In 2021, James became the first openly gay rugby league referee in the UK. He is now available to speak at events, sharing more about his personal journey and career.
James has been refereeing since he was a child and was able to turn this passion into a career successfully. Since 2011, he has officiated both domestic and international professional rugby league matches as a touch judge, video referee, and referee. He has also famously been one of the few people who can claim that they have officiated four consecutive Rugby League World Cups – an amazing feat.
Straddling both his careers as a referee and a surveyor with sheer excellence, James joined the Leeds City Council in 2006. Starting out as a Senior Technician, he worked his way up to Surveyor, Senior Land and Property Surveyor, and Principal Land and Property Surveyor at the Leeds City Council. James specialises in planning and development, property valuation and appraisals, acquisitions and disposals, development agreements, regeneration, negotiation of modifications to restrictive covenants, and options appraisals.
Coming out as gay when he was a notable name in a conventionally “macho” sport such as rugby must not have been without its challenges, but James did it with strength and bravery. He did so on BBC’s LGBT Sports podcast and has since used his platform to speak on his experience. A true picture of mental resilience and well-being and overcoming adversity, James is now available to also speak on topics related to LGBTQ+ matters and the Sport and Rugby League. He is eloquent, experienced, and an excellent choice to book as a speaker for your next event. Hire James Child right away!
