Real Assets
We build future energy systems and resilient infrastructure, backing emerging opportunities in technology, land and water.
James Barnes
Non-Executive Director
Location:
Other
Team:
Foresight Enterprise VCT - Board
Biography
James is a Non-Executive Director on the Board of Foresight Enterprise VCT.
James began his career in financial services in 1983, working in broking and investment banking with L. Messel & Co, Shearson Lehman and Pru Bache. He joined Dobbies Garden Centres in 1989 and, following a management buyout, was appointed Chief Executive Officer in 1994. During his tenure, he played a key role in the company's growth, including its flotation in 1997 and subsequent sale to Tesco in 2007. He continued to lead the business within the Tesco Group until 2013. James also served as a director of Dunedin Smaller Companies Investment Trust and was appointed Chair in 2017, overseeing its merger with Standard Life Smaller Companies Trust.
He has held a number of non-executive directorships with UK SMEs, early-stage businesses and charitable organisations.
