James Oakes

James Oakes has a diverse work experience, starting with their role as the Founder and CEO of Geonomics from 2008 to 2016. Geonomics aimed to revolutionize the lottery industry with innovative products. In 2016, Geonomics was acquired by ZEAL Network.

After the acquisition, James Oakes held various roles at The ZEAL Group. James served as the Director of ZEAL Investments, where they focused on early-stage investments and later stage M&A opportunities from 2016 to 2017. James then became the Corporate Development Director, leading strategy development, M&A, business development, and special projects from 2017 to 2018. As MD Lottovate, they implemented a new strategy for The ZEAL Group, focusing on investing in small, autonomous startups using metered funding from 2018 to 2019.

Subsequently, James Oakes joined Omaze as the Board Observer from 2017 to 2019. James then became the SVP International, responsible for expanding the company's global presence, starting with the opening of their first office in London. In 2022, they were promoted to the position of Chief International Officer.

Prior to their roles at Geonomics and The ZEAL Group, James Oakes worked at Equity Derivative Trading as the Managing Director from 2004 to 2008. James also served as an Economic Forecaster at Experian in 2002.

James Oakes attended the University of Kent from 1998 to 2001, where they obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Economics with Econometrics. James then pursued further education at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) from 2001 to 2002, earning a Master's Degree in Economics.