James Bowater
Founder
James is highly regarded in the Digital Asset, ScienceTech and Web3 industry. Having had early exposure to the world of cryptocurrency in 2014 whilst in the anti-counterfeit technology space, James worked on several early-stage projects before founding Crypto AM in a groundbreaking partnership with business newspaper City A.M. which, in 2018, became the first mainstream publisher to feature a regular focus on AI, blockchain, crypto assets, DeFi, digital assets, the metaverse, tokenisation and Web3.
Alongside his work at The Digital Commonwealth, James is also the founder of Jade Vault and Jade City, co-founder of MoonBlast, and Chairman of Knowbotics AI and the Global Ambassador for World Mobile Group. In addition, he holds notable advisory roles for over ten different web3 companies, including – Minutes Network, MELD, Paired World, Cudos, Smarter Contracts and Paris Blockchain Week. In November 2022, James was named ‘Blockchain Advisor of the Year’ at the AIBC Awards in Malta.
Eric Williamson
Compliance Director
Eric is a senior financial market professional with extensive experience working for leading global financial institutions, spanning three decades.
After over a decade of heading Credit Products teams at Wells Fargo and Bank of America, Eric has spent the last 9 years working with the likes of the FCA and EY to reform financial service regulations in the UK, with a focus on the digitalisation of capital markets.
Erics in-depth knowledge of digital and crypto assets includes tokenisation, risk management, systems & controls, compliance, regulation, ESG, capital markets, trading systems and life cycles.
Alongside this, Eric brings an innovative and disciplined approach to business, with senior-level involvement in leading cultural, diversity, and organisational change.
Darren Parkin
Editorial Director
Darren is a multi-award-winning editor and journalist with more than 30 years of experience in media.
In 1996, he became the youngest newspaper editor in the UK, eventually entering senior management roles within the industry.
In 2018, he transferred his vast editorial experience toward cryptocurrency and blockchain websites, and first crossed paths with The Digital Commonwealth’s CEO James Bowater where a firm and lasting bond was formed.
Outside the realms of The Digital Commonwealth, Darren is a keen outdoorsman and adventurer with a curious desire for setting unusual endurance records by canoe.
