James de Uphaugh, chief investment officer at Majedie Asset Management, says he gets stuck into investment issues at every stage. He says: “I guess you could say I hold the ring, and lead by example. I try to maintain the intensity of the firm to maintain our investment edge.”

This outlook, along with his firm but understated leadership, has helped the specialist equity boutique deliver strong returns in its 10th year since its first fund started. His skill has impressed the voting panel at Financial News' Awards for Excellence in Asset Management 2013.