Elizabeth James

Vice-President of Wealth & Client Strategy, Sygnus Capital

Style Observer (SO): How have the last few weeks been for you?

Elizabeth James (EJ): The last few weeks have been truly overwhelming. I grew up in Black River, St Elizabeth, and Hurricane Melissa landed very close to my hometown, causing devastating damage. My immediate family was severely impacted ….their safe space was completely ravaged. It’s a gut-wrenching feeling to lose your childhood home, your memories, and the life you knew, leaving you questioning why this had to happen.

SO: What has the experience taught you about yourself, life and indeed family?

EJ: On the brighter side, this experience has connected me to a new community, which I have grown to love and truly appreciate. Since Hurricane Melissa, a few of us have come together to coordinate relief efforts for St Elizabeth at The Summit. This initiative has shown me just how incredible our Jamaican network truly is: People from all walks of life willing to step up, support each other, and work together in times of need. What I’ve learned about myself is that I am stronger than I realised, and in times of chaos and hardship, I rise to the challenge. My dad asks me every day, “How are you doing all this?” and my response is simple: “Because we have to!”

SO: As someone in the financial sector, what advice would you share today with a graduating class?

EJ: Leaders are always looking for individuals who are eager to learn, take initiative, and commit to continuous growth. At the same time, it is crucial to develop strong communication skills and emotional intelligence, especially when interacting with clients. These skills will set you apart and help you build trust and credibility in your professional journey.

SO: Were you given the opportunity to assist in charting the course forward for Jamaica, what would your top three priorities be?

EJ: Both the private sector and Government have done an admirable job with relief efforts. Given the opportunity, I would prioritise rapid assessment and data collection in the first few days and weeks. Understanding which communities were hardest-hit and the specific needs of each is essential. The world wants to help, but a more coordinated, community-specific approach is required, one that focuses on immediate essentials such as shelter, water, and health care, because we risk duplicating efforts or leaving critical gaps.

Second, during the recovery stage, there is a need for more structured support for displaced individuals and families. Jamaica must invest in adequate temporary shelters and ensure that recovery plans are inclusive and community-driven. Engaging local residents in rebuilding fosters ownership and speeds recovery, while also making sure that the elderly and other vulnerable groups receive the targeted assistance and protection they require.

Lastly, education on long-term resilience and sustainability is key. The climate crisis has made Jamaica increasingly vulnerable to natural disasters. To mitigate future impacts, we must prioritise climate education and implement resilient building codes and infrastructure to better prepare for and withstand these events.

SO: As we close out 2025 what is in your rear-view mirror and conversely, what are you looking forward to come 2026?

EJ: As we close out 2025, the impact of Hurricane Melissa remains very present, but we are moving steadily from crisis into recovery. Supporting the planning and rebuilding of the affected communities will continue to be a major focus in 2026. Professionally, I’m excited to keep building out the offerings of the Sygnus’ family office and providing clients with solutions that go beyond traditional wealth management. And on a personal note, I’m looking forward to travelling again and establishing a routine that prioritises health and wellness for both myself and my family.

SO: Which countries are on your travel itinerary for 2026?

EJ: 2025 was full of travel and unforgettable experiences. I had the pleasure of touring Europe with my family, visiting Barcelona, Milan, Venice, France, London, and Scotland. For 2026, I’m mainly focusing on Asia, China, Japan, and Vietnam! These are all definitely on my bucket list.

SO: What’s your travel preference: Train, boat or plane?

EJ: Definitely plane! I’m always on a time crunch, so planes make travel far more efficient and convenient.

SO: Share with us the title of the last movie watched.

EJ: I’m more of a series girl than a movie watcher. The most recent series I watched was Yellowstone, an American neo-Western drama starring Kevin Costner.

SO: What are you drinking?

EJ: Appleton Estate Sorrel Daiquiri

SO: Lipstick or mascara?

EJ: Definitely lipstick! It feels like I’m not fully ready without it.

SO: An evening in or out?

EJ: I genuinely enjoy both! I love going out with friends and family, but some days I’m just happiest staying in and enjoying my own space.

SO: Were you able to sit in a room with five individuals, living and or dead, who would they be and why?

EJ: My paternal grandmother — I never met her, but stories about her speak of incredible strength and entrepreneurial spirit.

Michelle Obama — A passionate advocate for women’s education, health, and empowerment, as well as a global style icon.

Stephanie Shojaee — President of Shoma Group and one of the few women leading a major real estate development company. Her drive, vision, and leadership make her a powerful role model in my field.

Mark Cuban — A true embodiment of risk-taking and resilience. His belief that “the one thing you can control is your effort” is a philosophy that strongly resonates with me.

Warren Buffett — Legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. I connect deeply with his long-term approach to investing, emphasis on capital preservation, and value-driven decision-making, principles I apply daily for all my clients.

SO: Finally, what’s your personal credo?

EJ: Self-belief fuels actions, discipline drives success.

Appleton Estate Sorrel Daiquiri made with: Appleton Estate 8YO Reserve Blend Simple syrup Sorrel purée Lime juice (Photo: LH Multimedia)

Black River, St Elizabeth, in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.

James’ 2026 travel bucket list includes Asian countries China, Japan, and Vietnam.