James Hughes

James Hughes brings over 25 years of leadership experience in global asset management, with a strong track record of building and scaling investment businesses across both public and private markets. Currently, James is CEO of Aether Capital Partners, an impact investment business dedicated to accelerating the transition to a more sustainable world through an innovative approach to impact investing.

Prior to founding Aether, James held senior roles including CEO and CIO of Vedra Partners, where he also served as Managing Partner and Chair of the Investment Committee for an energy transition fund. His previous experience spans leadership positions at major financial institutions such as HSBC, Natixis, Aberdeen Standard Investments, and Gottex.

At A'Pelago Initiative Day 2, James will join two panels on Blue Economy Finance, offering his insights on how private capital can help drive the blue economy transition and unlock sustainable growth in ocean-based industries.