James

Web Developer

Mastering APIs and legacy system upgrades, James builds the secure, scalable backend architecture that businesses rely on.

At a glance

As a Web Developer at Serenity, James executes the backend development of complex software and website builds. He focuses on designing robust systems and seamless third-party integrations, ensuring that the hidden architecture powering a client's digital presence is just as secure and efficient as the visual front end.

Day to day, James bridges the gap between client needs and technical execution. He collaborates closely with clients during the initial requirements-gathering phase to understand exactly what their systems need to achieve. From there, he works hand-in-hand with Serenity’s frontend specialists, partnering with Jagoda on intricate software applications and Jayne on high-performing websites, to bring those operational requirements to life.

Rather than just writing code to meet a spec, James approaches backend development as building a foundation for long-term growth. He ensures that data flows logically, servers are configured to scale, and complex integrations operate without friction, providing a stable technical backbone that allows businesses to operate efficiently.

James Elms, Web Developer, at his desk wearing a Serenity jumper

James Elms, Web Developer, smiling in the breakroom

“Serenity constantly puts me out of my comfort zone in the best ways possible - full-day cross-country bike rides immediately come to mind! It is a very caring, inclusive and kind culture where I am always challenged at work, making it a brilliant place to evolve and learn.”

When you need James

James is vital when a business is struggling with disjointed software, failing API connections, or aging tech stacks that need to be replaced with modern, optimised solutions.

If you’re experiencing:

Disjointed platforms

Your third-party systems and tools refuse to talk to each other, creating manual data-entry headaches.

Outdated legacy systems

Your current software is slow, restrictive, or actively holding back your operational efficiency.

Complex, subtle bugs

You are experiencing deep-rooted server issues or backend errors that require meticulous investigation to resolve.

Data architecture challenges

You need a secure, scalable database built from the ground up to handle complex business logic.

“One of my favourite parts of my job is taking a frustrating, clunky legacy system and replacing it with a custom solution that just works. There’s a real satisfaction in solving those deep technical headaches so a client can finally run their business without fighting their own software.”

Areas of specialism

Backend web development

Building the robust, secure and scalable server-side architecture that powers high-performing websites.

Software development

Crafting bespoke web applications and technical solutions designed to solve specific, complex operational challenges.

API design and integrations

Creating seamless connections between distinct third-party platforms, ensuring data flows securely and automatically.

Database design and development

Structuring and managing complex data architectures so that information is stored logically, retrieved instantly, and fully protected.

Outside the 9 to 5

Outside of work, James balances a highly technical mindset with a deep passion for music and creativity. He is an avid musician, playing the guitar and producing digital tracks using an array of instruments, equipment, and software. When he isn't producing music or developing his own video games, he loves being highly social - whether that means heading to music festivals, catching up with friends at the pub, or getting outdoors.

At home, he loves to unwind by getting stuck into hands-on tech projects, from DIY builds to configuring home servers, networking, and tinkering with Raspberry Pi setups. Despite his love for all things digital, he is equally fond of nature and spends plenty of his downtime camping and making memories with his daughter and fiancée.

James Elms, Web Developer, and Danielle Rohan, Search Marketing Executive & Photographer, smiling in a meeting

“Whether I'm producing a track, developing a game, or setting up a home server, I love understanding how different components fit together to create something complete. That same drive to build and problem-solve is exactly what I bring to my backend development work every day.”