Exiled: James Lowrey, Fifty One Point Five North
James Lowrey is a well-known name in the commodity trade finance world, with over 30 years’ experience across the sector. He’s worked internationally, living and working in eight different countries in the past two decades, before launching his own consultancy focused on trade, finance, strategy, risk management, and commodities.
Welcome to Exiled: Dealmakers on a Desert Island, a podcast where we ‘strand’ a guest on a remote island and ask them who from their professional past, present, and future they’d choose to be stranded with. After all, it’s people that make a profession.
Having started out as a software engineer and coder before shifting into banking, he went on to play a key role in shaping SMBC’s commodities desk throughout the Covid lockdown. On a personal note, James is a family man, and enjoys tackling renovation projects with his wife, and a good glass of wine.
From his past
For the person from his past, James selected his very first boss in banking, Graham Norton (not the TV host!). Graham, an ex-partner at a big accounting firm, was unconventional for the sector and taught James to approach banking as a business while genuinely caring for the team. Their shared humour and sweet tooth helped form a close bond, and James credits Graham’s business-minded yet caring approach as a lasting influence on his own career.
From his present
James’ pick from his present is Nigel Scott, a fellow former SMBC banker. Their paths first crossed 15 years ago in Indonesia, and since then, they’ve collaborated in various capacities, including growing SMBC’s commodities desk together and, more recently, working together on key projects. James appreciates Nigel’s professionalism, their shared history and ongoing partnership.
From his future
Looking ahead, James couldn’t choose just one person. Instead, he spoke warmly of the entire global commodity and trade finance sector—a body of “incredibly smart, creative, and friendly” people. He’s keen to keep working with colleagues, clients, and friends in this industry, where events, like TXF Amsterdam, feel like reunions and professional ties cross borders.
Bonus:
When asked about someone outside of work, James’s answer was immediate: his family. With a demanding, travel-heavy career, quality time is rare—and he relished the thought of relaxing and reconnecting with his loved ones, especially as his kids are far away in New Zealand.
Tune in next week, where we’ll be speaking to another Exile!
