First Water Capital Advisors LLP – Portfolio Management Services (PMS)

Fund Manager

Arun is a highly experienced investment strategist with a career spanning more than two decades. He previously held the position of Head of Principal Investments at Ikarus Petroleum Industries, a fund managing over USD 400 million in assets focused on the energy sector. His professional background includes overseeing diverse investment prospects within the manufacturing, shipping, and chemical industries. Before his tenure at Ikarus, Arun was associated with EY in London, subsequently relocating to their Dubai office. In this capacity, he played a pivotal role in establishing and developing the Debt & Capital Markets division throughout the Middle East. He has successfully led, structured, and executed transactions for prominent entities such as Sovereign Wealth Funds, FTSE 100 corporations, and financial institutions, including Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), Etisalat, and Emirates NBD (ENDB). Arun holds the designation of Chartered Accountant (ICAEW), a qualification he earned during his time at Arthur Andersen. He also possesses a Master of Science in Accounting and Finance from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).

Fund Manager

Ricky, the Founder and Chief Investment Adviser of First Water Capital, is a seasoned value investor with a distinguished career spanning over three decades. His investment philosophy is characterized by a disciplined, logic-driven methodology, underscored by a profound passion and unwavering perseverance. This approach integrates comprehensive due diligence with an astute comprehension of the interplay between global, industry-specific, and company-level dynamics. Furthermore, it incorporates a macro-level perspective to navigate the evolving landscape of emerging markets. Before establishing First Water Capital, Ricky operated as an independent business analyst. During this period, he managed a capital pool that consistently delivered alpha, achieving a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 30% over a span of more than 15 years. Ricky's diverse experience extends to direct involvement in the operational aspects of commerce. He has held ownership interests in various industrial enterprises across Africa and has served as a financial advisor to numerous Chief Executive Officers. These experiences have equipped him with an in-depth understanding of the internal mechanics, challenges, and strategic considerations inherent in operating and managing businesses.