Hashem Montasser is an accomplished entrepreneur with a strong passion for building businesses and supporting contemporary arts and culture in the Middle East.

Having initially wrestled with interests in creative writing and financial markets post-college, Hashem ventured into Wall Street influenced by his father's background in Economics.

With seven years of experience in fixed income trading, Hashem transitioned to the buy side, where he played a pivotal role in launching the regional asset management arm of EFG-Hermes in Dubai.

Under his leadership, the business witnessed remarkable growth from USD50 million to USD8 billion in assets under management within six years, establishing itself as a key player in the Middle East & Africa securities market.

At age forty, Hashem embarked on a new entrepreneurial journey by founding The Lighthouse in Dubai, a multi-dimensional establishment combining a restaurant, concept store, and entrepreneurial hub in the heart of Design District (d3).

The Lighthouse serves as a platform for Hashem to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and creative minds, channeling his interests in building and investing in startup ventures.

Hashem Montasser is a Harvard Business School MBA graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Economics and Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations from Harvard University.

His professional journey includes roles as the CEO & CIO at Aventicum Capital Management, Head of Asset Management at EFG Hermes, and a background in financial analysis at reputable institutions like J.P. Morgan and Merrill Lynch.