A Malaysian national, James has been working and living in China over the last 30 years. He was actively involve in promoting economy activities between Malaysia and China, including served as Chairman of Malaysian Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai for 2016 and 2017.

James has substantial practical experience in ESG. He is a current Expert Member of the Regional Standards Advisory Group, Asia of B LAB Global, an international network focus on developing ESG related standards, and Industrial Advisory of University Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) in Malaysia. He is also a visiting lecturer of Shanghai Business School-MOFCOM Training Centre (Shanghai) and Tongji University.

James gained his ESG strategy development and execution experience through his previous leadership role as Vice President of Sustainability and General Manager of Social Business of Danone China, integrating programs for climate action, circular economy, and social innovation. He also served as Co-Chairman of China Sustainability Coalition of Consumer Goods Forum, a global network of manufacturers and retailers of consumer products sector, where he championed various climate action and circular economy initiatives.

James spoke frequently about ESG at various conferences and forums, including the Hong Qiao International Economic Forum, Global Social Business Summit, Peking University-University of Chicago Joint Forum, and University Malaya-Malaysia Stock Exchange (BURSA) Joint Forum.

James has over 30 years of management experience across Asia and China. He previously served as Managing Director, China of Carlsberg Group, Managing Director, China and Commercial Leader, Asia of Beiersdorf AG, Managing Director, China of American Standard, President of Consumer Products Division of Hong Leong Asia, Board Member of Danone Waters China and Board Member of Xinjiang Hops.

James obtained his Bachelor of Business Administration from the National University of Malaysia and MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.