James Ward BA (Hons), ACA, ACIS, Director and Group Chairman

James, who founded Whale Rock in 2004, is a chartered accountant and company secretary with 12 years’ experience in practice in the UK and Southern Africa. He has held a number of finance director positions as well as commercial roles in industry.

His experience ranges from e-commerce start-ups to professional services FTSE 100 organisations. James’ key sector expertise includes e-commerce and media, energy and trading, insurance brokerage, FSA regulatory, PFI/PPP bid management and the South African business environment.

In working with clients, James is able to quickly identify the key issues affecting an organisation and propose appropriate solutions.

His specialist skills include managing working capital shortfalls, resolving and advising on complex accounting issues, preparing boards for complex strategic business decisions and driving and motivating finance teams.