James von Claer

James von Claer is an experienced finance professional and entrepreneur with a strong background in lending and start-ups, particularly in the fields of innovative technologies. Currently serving as Chairman of Spey since March 2023, James focuses on integrating advanced finance and technology into the fine art, antiques, and collectibles market. As a Partner at Eleanor Creative Partners, James advises and invests in sustainable start-ups across sectors such as alternative finance and agrotech. James founded Eleanor Capital Partners and held the position of Director of Advisory Services at Arabesque S-Ray from May 2018 to July 2020, providing solutions for sustainability challenges in finance. Previous roles include Fund Distribution and Sales Director at NOTZ STUCKI GROUP and Senior Vice President positions at BSI Ifabanque SA and Ifabanque SA. James holds an MSc in Global Environmental Politics and Policy from Birkbeck, University of London, alongside earlier studies at City, University of London, Kingston University, and Stonyhurst College.