James is a Partner at Cornerstone International Group and leads the firm’s business advisory practice in Hong Kong. He specializes in business advisory services for companies seeking to navigate the complexities of international trade, cross-border operations, and market expansion. His expertise in bridging Chinese and Western business practices makes him a trusted partner for multinational corporations and family offices operating across Greater China and international markets.
Background
James is a seasoned entrepreneur who joined Cornerstone in 2019 as a Partner at the Hong Kong office. His career spans more than 35 years in manufacturing, international trade, M&A, and family office services. He has accumulated deep industry knowledge across diverse sectors, including personal protective apparel, composite materials for buses and trains, hydraulic systems for construction machinery, and auto service franchise chains.
With his profound understanding of the differences between Chinese and Western culture, business practices, rules, and regulations, James has been engaged in assisting several multinational business projects operating in China. He is an excellent team player who works well with business partners holding different perspectives and expectations. James is a strategic thinker with global vision and insights, which he consistently translates into effective solutions to complex problems.
Advisory Expertise & Focus
James brings deep expertise in business advisory, market entry strategies, and business expansion plans for companies operating in Hong Kong and China. He is particularly recognized for his ability to help Nordic companies navigate market entry and expansion, as well as assisting companies in implementing offshore business development strategies.
Credentials & Affiliations
James is the past Vice Chairperson of the Finnish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong. He is currently a mentor and market expert, helping Nordic companies with their market entry strategies and business expansion plans in Hong Kong and China. He was formerly the overseas investment representative of Tianjin City, engaging in assisting companies implementing their offshore business development strategies.
James graduated from Hong Kong Shue Yan University, Faculty of Business Administration, with a major in Marketing.
Languages
Fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese, Fukienese, and English; basic French.