Russell has experience across a range of housing roles, including housing strategy, development, estates management and homelessness services. His career also includes several years working abroad, where he taught English for academic purposes.

He holds an MA in Housing Policy and Practice, a Postgraduate Certificate in Social Science Research, and a PhD in social and urban studies. His academic work has been published in peer-reviewed journals, focusing on issues such as homelessness, gentrification, and social segregation.