Available to hire
I’m Dr James Cannan, an automation and AI expert with a PhD in Computer Science, focused on turning ideas into scalable, data-driven products. I partner with startups to design AI-powered automations, build prototypes, and shape technical roadmaps. I thrive on simplifying complexity and delivering measurable value through automation, AI, and strong engineering practices.
Over the last decade I’ve led R&D at Compare Wealth Managers, founded WillAIReplaceMe.io, and collaborated with accelerators like TMCx and HAX. I’ve built hardware and software systems, steered cross-functional teams, and helped grow ventures from concept to scale. I’m passionate about mentoring, data-driven decision making, and creating practical tech that improves outcomes for people and businesses.
Skills
Experience Level
Expert
Expert
Expert
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Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Language
English
Fluent
Work Experience
R&D Director at Compare Wealth Managers Ltd
November 1, 2020 - PresentBuilt the tech side of the business from the ground up, leading AI and automation initiatives, automating processes, building out the website to improve the customer journey, educating the team on the latest tech, SEO, content creation, partnership development, analytics, digital marketing, and outsourcing.
Founder at Unique Interactions Ltd
April 1, 2019 - PresentDesigned, built, and launched WillAIReplaceMe.io, an AI-powered platform to assess automation risk across thousands of jobs; developed end-to-end website; created proprietary AI system; designed workflows and automations to streamline content delivery, user engagement, and marketing reach; focused on scalability and automation-first processes.
Director at Oxford Software Innovation Ltd
July 1, 2020 - PresentDeveloping iOS, Android, and web apps for an international client base, specialising in computer vision and Bluetooth applications.
Innovation Manager at Sensor Driven Ltd.
July 1, 2020 - October 6, 2025Helped hardware, software and business development; identified new industries and leads; met with potential customers; developed circuit boards; created automated test software; architected and prototyped new systems and led development on a key contract in the nuclear industry.
Professional Freelancer at Various clients
March 1, 2019 - PresentWorked on Bluetooth module selection and design, creating Eagle PCB components, hacking Bluetooth devices, product development advice, and custom RFID PCB design.
CTO at Sana Health Ltd
November 1, 2018 - October 6, 2025Headed up technology; PCB design; firmware/software development; furthered R&D; creating early Sana prototypes; managed outsourced electronics and firmware companies; acted as interface between non-technical and technical staff.
Founder at MiniWear Ltd
April 1, 2019 - October 6, 2025Created open-source DIY miniature and wearable electronics; designed and fabricated PCBs; 3D printed cases; programmed sensors (heart rate, temperature, UV, IR, light, IMU) on Arduino-based Bluetooth microcontroller; gained experience in Wordpress marketing, crowdfunding, video and photo editing, and mass production.
IOS Mobile Application Test Engineer (Part Time) at Metrarc St John’s Innovation Center
June 30, 2013 - October 6, 2025Tested iOS applications across devices and environments.
NASA JPL Research Visitor at NASA JPL
March 31, 2013 - October 6, 2025Worked on the EMG Bio-Sleeve project, including circuit board design and electronics for a mini EMG armband.
Conference Organiser at CEEC (University of Essex)
December 31, 2011 - October 6, 2025Organised the Computer Science & Electronic Engineering Conference; responsibilities included marketing, operations, and reviewing.
Conference Organiser at CEEC (University of Essex)
December 31, 2012 - October 6, 2025Continued conference organisation responsibilities and oversight.
Graduate Lab Assistant at University of Essex
December 31, 2011 - October 6, 2025Created lab materials for CE315 – Mobile Robotics; ran labs; supported students.
Graduate Lab Assistant at University of Essex
December 31, 2012 - October 6, 2025Assisted with mobile robotics lab modules and student support.
Research Officer at University of Essex
July 31, 2010 - October 6, 20257-week EMG and computer vision project; interfacing for control of robotic hands and manipulation tasks.
Temporary Care Staff and Sports Assistant
November 30, 2008 - October 6, 2025Builder
August 31, 2004 - October 6, 2025Education
PhD in Computer Science at University of Essex
January 1, 2009 - January 1, 2013BSc Computer Science (Embedded Systems and Robotics) at University of Essex
January 1, 2005 - January 1, 2008Texas Medical Centre Accelerator Program (TMCx) at Texas Medical Centre Accelerator
August 1, 2018 - November 1, 2018HAX Hardware Accelerator Program at HAX
January 1, 2016 - May 1, 2016Software Testing: The basics of software QA testing at Online Course
June 1, 2019 - June 30, 2019Software Development From A-To-Z: OOP, UML, Agile, Kanban, SCRUM at Online Course
June 1, 2019 - June 30, 2019Qualifications
PhD in Computer Science
January 1, 2009 - January 1, 2013BSc Computer Science (Embedded Systems and Robotics)
January 1, 2005 - January 1, 2008Texas Medical Centre Accelerator Program (TMCx)
August 1, 2018 - November 1, 2018HAX Hardware Accelerator Program
January 1, 2016 - May 1, 2016Software Testing: The basics of software QA testing
June 1, 2019 - June 1, 2019Software Development From A-To-Z
June 1, 2019 - June 1, 2019HAX Hardware Accelerator Program
January 1, 2016 - May 31, 2016Texas Medical Centre Accelerator Program (TMCx)
August 1, 2018 - November 30, 2018Software Testing: The basics of software QA testing
June 1, 2019 - June 30, 2019Software Development From A-To-Z: OOP, UML, Agile, Kanban, SCRUM
June 1, 2019 - June 30, 2019Industry Experience
Software & Internet, Professional Services, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Media & Entertainment, Education, Computers & Electronics
Skills
Experience Level
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
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