Our Team

James is a former executive at Marriott International, Inc., one of the world’s largest hotel companies. He was responsible for securing new franchise and management contracts in Thailand, New Zealand, Australia and the South Pacific for brands including Bulgari, Ritz-Carlton, St Regis, W Hotels & Resorts, JW Marriott, Marriott, Sheraton, Westin, Renaissance, Four Points by Sheraton and Courtyard by Marriott. In addition to deals in those markets, he worked on hotel projects in locations throughout Asia - including Vietnam, Hong Kong, Macau and Japan - during a 10-year career at Marriott in Hong Kong.

Previously, James practiced as a corporate/commercial lawyer, with particular emphasis on off-market mergers & acquisitions, complex contract negotiations and regulatory advice for listed and large privately-held entities. He was admitted as a lawyer in Hong Kong, practicing for two years with international law firm, Norton Rose.  Before that, he was with Bell Gully in Auckland for five years.

James holds BCom/LLB degrees from the University of Auckland. He is a member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors and is actively involved in Auckland’s Ice Angels investment group. 

James left Hong Kong and returned to New Zealand with his family in December 2018.  He is now based in Auckland, but travels regularly.

In addition to hotel development and consultancy work, James invests in real estate, start-ups and listed companies.  He coaches his eldest daughters' football teams, runs very slowly, plays erratic golf, and constantly worries about whether Aston Villa will remain in the Premier League.