The APCC’s annual conference, held on 8 October 2025, brought together a remarkable line-up of speakers, partners, and regulators for a day of insight, discussion, and connection across the financial services community.
Representatives from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS), Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), and the Money Advice Trust joined APCC members and affiliates to explore some of the most pressing issues shaping compliance and regulation today — from consumer vulnerability and data transformation to the evolving role of AI.
Opening Remarks
The day began with a welcome from Steve McGuinness, APCC Chair, who provided an update on the Association’s work and ongoing collaboration with key industry stakeholders. His message set the tone for the day: a focus on shared purpose, open dialogue, and continual improvement within the compliance consultancy profession.
Key Themes and Highlights
Consumer Vulnerability in Focus
The morning keynote from Chris Fitch, Vulnerability Lead Consultant at the Money Advice Trust, explored how financial services firms are adapting to meet the complex and evolving challenges of consumer vulnerability. Chris emphasised the importance of understanding real-world impact — encouraging firms to move beyond policy into practical action that genuinely improves customer outcomes.
Non-Financial Misconduct (NFMC)
Andrew Jacobs, Partner at S&W Partners Limited, followed with a thought-provoking session on the FCA’s new rules on non-financial misconduct. His presentation examined the benefits and potential pitfalls of the framework, helping members consider how best to communicate these changes to their clients and implement them effectively.
Supporting Vulnerable Customers
After the morning break, Rachel Imrie and Sean Crawford-Meyler from the FSCS shared valuable insights into their organisation’s approach to supporting vulnerable customers. They outlined how claims processes are being adapted to provide better accessibility, understanding, and care — aligning with the wider industry shift toward consumer protection.
Regulatory Challenges and Insolvency
Dina Devalia, Managing Director at Quantuma Advisory Limited, delivered an engaging overview of the regulatory landscape surrounding firm insolvency. Her session covered early intervention tools, wind-down planning, and lessons learned from recent enforcement cases — reminding attendees of the importance of foresight and structured planning.
Afternoon Sessions
After lunch, Jack Ferris, Ombudsman Leader at the Financial Ombudsman Service, opened the afternoon with an update on reforms to the complaints redress scheme. His session outlined key priorities for improving process efficiency and transparency while maintaining fairness for consumers and firms alike.
The FCA’s Peter Royle and Arunita Roy then provided a detailed look at the Transforming Data Collection programme. Their update covered new milestones, including the move toward common data standards, automation of data collection, and the next generation of reporting — all aimed at reducing duplication and improving regulatory insight.
Later, Simran Singh, AI Lab Lead at the FCA, introduced delegates to the regulator’s pioneering AI Lab Initiative. His session highlighted the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence within financial services, underscoring the importance of responsible innovation and clear governance.
Looking Ahead
Before the day closed with networking, Mateo Jarrin Cuvi of the Association of Governance, Risk and Compliance (AGRC) shared an exciting update on the APCC Compliance Consultancy Diploma — celebrating the continued professional development of compliance consultants and the growing recognition of the qualification across the industry.
Collaboration, Insight and Progress
The 2025 APCC Conference once again demonstrated the value of bringing together regulators, consultants, and industry experts in one room. The discussions reinforced a shared commitment to strengthening compliance standards, promoting fair outcomes for consumers, and embracing innovation responsibly.
“Events like this remind us that compliance isn’t static — it’s a living discipline,” said one attendee. “It’s about collaboration, learning, and constantly raising the bar.”
As the financial services landscape continues to evolve, the APCC remains dedicated to supporting members with insight, representation, and opportunities to shape the future of compliance consultancy.
