Ross joined FIA in 2024 to support investment programs across sustainable forestry, including forest investment and nature-based solutions, and plays a key role in advancing the firm’s sustainability practices. He works across the growing scope of FIA’s sustainability programs, including the implementation of the firm’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and impact roadmap, and works with investment and forestry operations staff on ESG integration to ensure continual improvement.

Previous Experience

Growing up near Atlanta, Ross began his career prospecting for precious metals with small-cap exploration companies in North Georgia and the Southeast, before moving to South America to accept an exploration geologist role for a major international mining company. Working to develop existing reserves and identify new prospects, much of his time was spent in nature-centric, remote areas with traditional communities, where he was exposed to a variety of natural resources, sustainability, social impact, and other ESG considerations and opportunities. Building on these formative experiences, he founded and for almost a decade managed a boutique sustainability, business development, regulatory, and natural resources-focused consultancy for a diverse client base throughout the United States, Latin America, and Europe.

What is your business philosophy?

Be flexible. Circumstances, opportunities, and situations are constantly changing. A willingness to adapt and keep an open mind is essential, not to mention helpful in remaining grounded and self-aware.

Why did you choose this field / career path?

Sustainability is key to forest investment and the nexus of so many things that are important to me: natural resources: people, biodiversity, communities, and the environmental inheritance we all share and have a responsibility to manage. It is an exciting time for forest investment as important sustainability and nature-based solutions are being continually integrated.

What is one of the best lessons you’ve learned during your career?

Always do your reading; approach people and situations without preconceptions; never be afraid to ask questions.