David Cummings

Experience

Former Deputy Chief of Defence Staff for the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), Brigadier David Cummings is an accomplished leader who brings unmatched depth of experience and expertise in project management, negotiation, risk management, finance and logistics. Prior to joining Sygnus, David served with the JDF for over 32 years where he held impressive leadership roles, including Colonel General Staff and Colonel Adjutant Quartermaster, and lastly as the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff. During his tenure he created and successfully implemented projects valued at over US$300 million spanning construction, infrastructure, maritime, information systems and aviation.

As Head of Real Estate and Project Finance, David is charged with providing leadership and project management of Sygnus Real Estate Finance Ltd. (SRF). No stranger to high-level negotiations and risk management, David is astute at leading and developing high-performing teams for complex organizations and projects. David served as a Board Member and Chairman of Audit, ICT and Security Committees for the Urban Development Corporation for seven years. He is a recipient of the Order of Distinction in the 2016 National Honours and Award for outstanding service to the Jamaica Defence Force. He is a possesses a Bachelor of Engineering, a Master of Military Arts & Sciences and a Master of Business Administration.

Dr. Ike Johnson, PhD, CFA

Experience

Dr. Ike Johnson is a distinguished leader in the financial industry and a driving force behind Sygnus’ success. With his deep expertise in finance and unwavering dedication, he is instrumental in driving the group’s corporate strategy and positioning Sygnus as the premier alternative investments solutions firm in the Caribbean.

With a Ph.D. in Finance from the University of Manchester Business School and a CFA charter holder, Dr. Johnson brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. His academic background, coupled with his extensive practical insights, enables him to navigate complex financial landscapes with exceptional acumen.

As the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Sygnus Group, Dr. Johnson holds executive responsibility for Operations, Corporate Strategy, and the Real Estate and Private Equity business lines. Thereby playing a pivotal role in shaping the group’s growth and development. His leadership and deep industry knowledge enable him to identify high-growth opportunities and deliver exceptional results for clients and investors.

In addition to his role at Sygnus Capital, Dr. Johnson also serves as the Managing Director for Sygnus Group Puerto Rico Inc. Furthermore, he holds directorship positions in Sygnus Credit Investments Limited, Sygnus Real Estate Finance, and Sygnus Deneb Investments Limited, showcasing his multifaceted contributions to the Sygnus Group’s diverse portfolio.

Driven by his dedication and passion for excellence, Dr. Ike Johnson embodies Sygnus Group’s commitment to delivering innovative and transformative solutions. His exceptional leadership, strategic foresight, and commitment to pushing boundaries have solidified Sygnus Group’s position as a trusted partner in the alternative investments landscape.

Elizabeth Stair, OD, JP, FRICS, Attorney-at-Law

Experience

Financial & Regulatory Consultant practicing in the Jamaican and US markets; Former Director of Corporate Finance and Financial Controller at the Jamaica Public Service Company Limited; Former Group Controller at MaruEnergy Caribbean Limited; Former Audit Senior at Ernst & Young and former Senior Accountant at KPMG.

Pierre Williams, CFA, MSc

Experience

Pierre Williams is an experienced professional with a successful career in Investments and Economic Policy. He holds a BSc. in Economics with a minor in accounting, as well as an MSc. in Economics from the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus. Pierre is also a CFA Charter holder. Currently serving as the Investment Manager at ATL Group Pension Fund, Pierre oversees assets exceeding US$200 million.

In this pivotal role, he steers the strategic direction, development, and implementation of plans to achieve portfolio objectives. His leadership is instrumental in navigating the complexities of investment management, ensuring optimal returns and robust financial performance. Pierre was appointed to the Board of Sygnus Real Estate Finance Limited (“SRF”) on April 1, 2021. He is also a member of the Board’s Enterprise Risk Committee and the Audit & Governance Committee.

Horace Messado, FCA, MSc

Experience

A highly qualified and experienced professional with expertise in the Energy Services, Utility Regulations, Investment and Financial Management, Horace is a chartered accountant with over 25 years experience. He has significant experience in accounting, corporate finance, contract negotiation, regulatory economics and tariff design, business development, and strategic planning, and has operated at the executive level for the past 15 years. He currently operates a consultancy, which advises clients in the areas of Financial Management, Capital Markets and Energy Rate Regulation.

Horace started his career in professional services firms KPMG and Ernst & Young Services Limited, where he garnered significant experience before transitioning to corporate Jamaica. He held many senior positions including Financial Controller and Director of Corporate Finance at JPS, and Group Financial Controller at MaruEnergy Caribbean Limited. JPS is the largest integrated utility in the Caribbean with over US$1 billion in annual turnover, and MCL controlled a portfolio on power assets in four Caribbean territories including Trinidad & Tobago, the Bahamas and Jamaica.

In various capacities, Horace has led many commercial loan negotiations, regulatory negotiations supporting utility energy rate adjustments, participated in the renegotiation of the JPS operating License, and advised various clients on regulatory matters both from the investor and regulator perspectives. Other major accomplishments include developing and implementing financial management and internal control systems, playing the roles of Trustee and Chairman of the Investment Committee of one of the largest pension funds in Jamaica.

Horace is a chartered accountant and holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Manchester.

Linval Freeman, FCA, FCCA

Experience

Linval is Chairman of the Public Accountancy Board Investigations Committee and a member of the Accounting Standards Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica. He serves as Director and Chairman of the Audit Committees for Sygnus Real Estate Finance Limited, and Canopy Insurance Limited. He is Chairman of the Audit Committee of the Council of the University of Technology. Linval serves as a Justice of the Peace. Some previous roles that Linval has held include former Director and Assurance Partner at Ernst & Young Caribbean, Jamaica Office; former Director at PriceWaterHouseCoopers, and the first Director in charge of its then newly established internal audit practice.