James Connor is the Chief Executive Officer of Sygnus Capital Puerto Rico, leading the firm’s efforts in impact alternative investments and expanding access to capital for small and middle-market businesses in underserved sectors. With a deep commitment to economic growth and inclusion, he plays a pivotal role in shaping Sygnus Capital’s strategic direction in the region.

A seasoned finance and investment professional, James was a founding partner and CEO of Acrecent Financial, which transitioned to Sygnus Capital Puerto Rico in December 2023. Under his leadership, the firm launched the renowned LIFT Puerto Rico Business Impact Funds, now a key component of Sygnus Capital’s portfolio.

Throughout his career, James has overseen the deployment of more than $3.5 billion and raised over $500 million in equity and debt capital, directly supporting thousands of resilient yet underserved businesses across Puerto Rico and beyond. His expertise spans multiple industries and markets outside the United States, reinforcing his influence in alternative investments.

Before joining Sygnus, James spent nearly a decade at GE Capital, where he rose to President of Caribbean operations. There, he managed a portfolio exceeding $1 billion and provided financing solutions to more than 3,000 businesses, driving sustainable growth in the region.

With a steadfast dedication to economic opportunity, justice, and inclusion, James remains at the forefront of strategic capital deployment, championing initiatives that empower businesses and foster lasting impact.

“Nothing is impossible.”

Raúl Cacho is the Head of Private Credit Investments at Sygnus Capital Puerto Rico. In this role, he leads initiatives in deal origination and portfolio management, playing a critical role in positioning the firm as a leader in private credit within the region.

A seasoned commercial finance professional, Raúl brings over 35 years of experience in the private credit industry, spanning commercial finance, corporate banking, leasing, fund management, and alternative investments. His strong commitment to transparency, integrity, and purpose, combined with an extensive financial background, provides him with a unique perspective on business operations, risk management, and growth strategies.

Under Raúl’s strategic leadership, Sygnus Capital Puerto Rico’s private credit platform has become an integral part of the firm’s offerings, providing a wide range of specialty finance strategies. These include equipment finance, real estate, development and construction loans, working capital financings, healthcare, and hospitality financing. His leadership has positioned Sygnus as a trusted partner for clients in commercial real estate, special situations, and corporate growth financing.

Before the Sygnus acquisition in 2022, Raúl was the Co-Founder, Director, and President of Acrecent Financial, where he also served as Chief Credit Officer. He was responsible for all aspects of credit underwriting, risk management, credit operations, and portfolio administration, ensuring high performance and disciplined growth across the company’s portfolio.

Raúl holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Babson College with a double major in Finance and Quantitative Methods. Outside of work, he enjoys active outdoor activities, reflecting his energetic and balanced approach to life.

“Driving financial excellence and sustainable growth.”

Pablo Peñaloza is a seasoned financial executive with over 30 years of experience in commercial finance, strategic management, and operational leadership. Throughout his career, he has successfully led multi-billion-dollar portfolios, driving financial growth, risk management, and operational efficiency across Latin America and beyond.

As the former CEO of GE Capital’s Latin America Commercial Finance division, Pablo managed a $3.5 billion portfolio, overseeing corporate finance initiatives, investment strategies, and market expansion. Later, as CFO for GE Capital Latin America, he played a critical role in managing an $8 billion portfolio, implementing strategic financial planning, and optimizing enterprise-wide operations.

Now serving as Chief Operating Officer of Sygnus Capital Puerto Rico, Pablo leads the firm’s operational, financial, and strategic initiatives, ensuring the seamless execution of its investment and fund management activities. His expertise spans financial planning and analysis, risk management, corporate strategy, mergers and acquisitions, and regulatory compliance. His leadership has been instrumental in strengthening financial frameworks, fostering innovation, and delivering high-impact financial solutions in complex business environments.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance & Economics from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Beyond his professional career, Pablo is passionate about developing financial strategies that promote sustainable business growth and long-term value creation.

“Leadership is about uplifting people.”

Keishmarie Meléndez González is the Director of Fund Management at Sygnus Capital Puerto Rico, where she leverages her extensive expertise in private credit and impact investing to drive strategic growth. Keishmarie plays an important role in advancing the firm’s mission of delivering robust fund performance while creating sustainable and measurable impact through Sygnus investment platforms in Puerto Rico.

In her role, Keishmarie oversees the management and performance of Sygnus’ private credit funds in Puerto Rico, focusing on fund strategy development, portfolio diversification, and risk management. She stands out for managing over $130 million in assets. Keishmarie also leads fundraising initiatives, investor relations, and regulatory compliance, ensuring alignment to drive portfolio growth and achieve diversification.

Keishmarie’s professional expertise spans private credit, impact investing, and fund management, with a proven track record across key sectors, including real estate development, healthcare, and education.

Keishmarie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Puerto Rico and a FINRA Series 65 certification. She has also completed leadership training through the Soul Career Leadership Executive Program, which emphasizes emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and effective communication.

Beyond work, Keishmarie is passionate about promoting financial literacy and economic empowerment within underserved communities. In her spare time, Keishmarie also enjoys salsa dancing, a hobby that brings balance and energy to her life.

“Having the right support is essential to create value.”

Jesús Daniel Mattei serves as Vice President at Sygnus Capital, leading the firm’s investment banking and advisory operations in Puerto Rico. In this role, Jesús oversees Sygnus’ expansion into Puerto Rico’s investment banking sector, focusing on private debt placements, structured financing, and developing innovative solutions for clients.

An accomplished finance professional with over 20 years of experience, Jesús brings expertise across investment banking, private debt markets, and financial consulting. His career spans from transaction advisory and portfolio management, overseeing diverse funds and financial instruments, to debt restructuring, contributing to negotiating over $20 billion in municipal securities.

Jesús holds an MBA from the University of New Orleans and a BBA in Finance from the University of Puerto Rico. His certifications as a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), and Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) further validate his professional capabilities.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Jesús is passionate about culture and music, serving as a board member of Pro Arte Musical, which promotes classical music in Puerto Rico. He is also a Founding Member of the Financial Analysts’ Society of Puerto Rico.