5pm, 25th November 2026
Fox Williams, Finsbury Square, London
In our next forum, hosted by Fox Williams, we’ll be joined by representatives from the FCA and PRA to discuss the future of the Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SMCR) and what reform means for Chairs and Non-Executive Directors.
With an initial set of changes already introduced and further reforms planned, this is an opportunity to hear directly from the regulators about their priorities and contribute to the conversation. Designed as an open discussion, the session will give Chairs and NEDs space to share their experiences of SMCR in practice, ask questions and offer perspectives to help inform the regulators’ thinking as reform develops.
The discussion will bring together Alex Smith, the FCA’s Head of Cross Cutting Policy, Simon Hall Head of Division at the PRA, and Partners from Fox Williams, our hosts. Ben Blackett-Ord will chair the conversation, drawing out the implications for NEDs and the practical questions boards should be considering.
Topics for discussion will include:
- What has changed so far, and what are the regulators looking to achieve through further reform?
- What could changes to senior manager approvals and certification mean for firms and their boards?
- How can firms reduce the administrative burden while maintaining clear responsibilities and effective accountability?
- What should NEDs look for when overseeing their firm’s response to the reforms?
- What questions should boards be asking now?
There will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions, compare notes with peers and share the issues on your board’s agenda under the Chatham House Rule. The discussion will be followed by drinks and networking.
Kindly hosted by Fox Williams
10 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AF
Wednesday 25th November 2026
5.00pm: registration and refreshments
5.30pm: discussion
7:00pm: drinks reception
Our monthly forum discussions are free of charge for members and associate members. Find out more about membership here.