BufferLABS Advisory Board
Role of the Advisory Board
The BufferLABS Advisory Board delivers strategic counsel to propel the company’s mission of pioneering innovative financial solutions. Comprising experts in investment management, fintech, and entrepreneurship, the board provides deep insights into market dynamics, product innovation, and strategic growth. With specialized proficiency in deploying derivative instruments at scale for hedging, members guide sophisticated risk management, technological advancements, and market expansion. Convening regularly, the board empowers leadership, cultivates strategic partnerships, and drives stakeholder value, positioning BufferLABS as a leader in the financial services industry.
Advisory Board Members
Patrick Adrian, CFA
Pat Adrian, CFA, is Head of Registered Funds at Nasdaq Fund Secondaries, where he develops liquidity solutions for institutional clients across fund structures. Previously Partner and Co-CEO at RedQuarry, Pat helped lead the investment research technology firm through its acquisition by Nasdaq in 2018. His background includes quantitative trading experience and institutional research at Russell Investments. With a B.S. in Economics from the University of Puget Sound, Pat’s experience in financial technology and marketplace design supports BufferLABS’ innovative approach to dynamic buffer solutions.
Tom Fletcher, CFA
Tom Fletcher, CFA, recently retired from Russell Investments, where he held senior leadership roles in institutional asset management. With decades of experience in investment strategy, derivatives, and risk management, Tom advised institutional and high-net-worth clients, driving strategic portfolio solutions. A CFA charterholder with an MBA from the University of Texas and a B.S. from the U.S. Naval Academy, he now seeks advisory roles to share his expertise. Tom’s deep market knowledge and strategic acumen enhance BufferLABS’ mission to deliver innovative financial solutions.
Jim Thames, CFA
Jim Thames, CFA, is an entrepreneur and early-stage investor, serving as President of DVG Ventures, LLC, focusing on transformative businesses. Previously a Managing Partner at Arrowstreet Capital ($400B+ AUM), he co-built the firm, specializing in global equity strategies. His career includes senior research at Russell Investments, focusing on quant equity and hedge funds. With an MBA from the University of West Florida and a BBA from the University of Florida, Jim’s expertise in investment management and startup growth strengthens BufferLABS’ innovative financial solutions.
Kelly Haughton
Kelly Haughton retired from Russell Investments where he created and designed the Russell Indexes, spearheaded the growth of the index business into derivatives licensing and held senior posts in institutional investment management. After leaving Russell, Kelly has been involved in entrepreneurial efforts in the index and index related investment management businesses. Kelly’s financial product development expertise led to the Russell Index business being sought out for acquisition by other players like the London Stock Exchange Group. Kelly strengthens Buffer Labs ability to innovate new products.