James is a Venture Partner with Iliad Partners. He has 15+ years of legal experience across private equity, oil and gas and ports and infrastructure in MENA. James is currently the General Counsel of Abu Dhabi Terminals LLC and is also seconded as a legal advisor to Abu Dhabi Ports Company PJSC. Previously, James was General Counsel of RAK Gas LLC and a legal advisor to Sheikh Saud Bin Qasr Al Qassimi. James originates and supports our investments in Logistics and Mobility, among other verticals.
 
In his roles as General Counsel of Abu Dhabi Terminals LLC and is also seconded as a legal advisor to Abu Dhabi Ports Company PJSC, James sits across the business advising on M&A, finance matter at a corporate level whilst advising on the day-to-day terminal and maritime operational and commercial matters. In each business, James works closely with the CEO and board members to facilitate sustainable growth.
 
Prior, he was the General Counsel of RAK Gas LLC and a legal advisor to the Government of Ras Al Khaimah, headed up by Sheikh Saud Bin Qasr Al Qassimi. James was responsible for running all legal aspects of RAK Gas, with a focus on African oil & gas acquisitions. In addition, James advised the Government of Ras Al Khaimah across a range of matters, as was required.
 
Prior to RAK Gas, James spent 5 years with the Government of Dubai private equity arm, Istithmar World PJSC. This period covered the start of the financial crisis and James advised across a broad range of assets.
 
James started his career in 2005 with prominent New Zealand law firm, Russell McVeagh before moving to Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
 
In 2021, James graduated with a Masters in Business Administration (with Distinction) from the London Business School. Prior to this, James earned his Bachelor of Laws from the University of Otago, New Zealand.