Gates is a Partner with the Boston Consulting Group focusing on Climate and Sustainability, with a special emphasis on carbon markets and the relationship between capital markets and decarbonization. His work spans industries including industrial goods, energy, and global financial institutions.

Prior to BCG Gates held roles in investment management for 15 years, including roles at Alliance Bernstein where he was the founding portfolio manager of Australia's first carbon-neutral investment fund.

Gates also received in Materials Science and Engineering at Northwestern University with a focus in cement chemistry and concrete deterioration.