PIMFA - Building Personal Financial Futures

The PIMFA HR Briefing: How Ready Are You for Employment Law Changes?
2024-09-12 11:00 - 12:00 (Europe/London)
‘HR Professionals: How Ready Are You for Employment Law Changes?’
In September’s HR Briefing we discuss how two new employment bills the Employment Rights Bill and the Draft Equality (Race and Disability) Bill announced in the Kings speech on 17th July will impact on the world of HR professionals within Wealth firms if they become law.
Over 60 minutes, Clyde & Co’s employment team unpack the new Labour Government’s far-reaching workforce reforms, helping you look at the challenges for your firm both from an operational and implementation perspective.
Key topic discussions include:

Understanding the nature and scope of the proposed reforms in relation to your firm.
Assess the impact of the proposed reforms on your workforce and firm.
How to prioritise your ‘to-do’ list and reduce the risk of getting things wrong.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and have Chris Holme and Shadia El Dardiry answer your questions.

PIMFA Live Online Learning: Financial crime Business-wide risk assessment- the key to getting it right
2024-09-16 09:30 - 12:30
The Business Wide Risk Assessment (BWRA) is a key pillar in understanding the risks posed to your business and monitoring the effectiveness of you control framework. Yet so many firms are still getting this critical, living document wrong and thus falling short of regulatory expectations.
The Business Wide Risk Assessment masterclass, delivered by Avyse, is your opportunity to step back and consider the financial crime risks your firm is, or could be, exposed to and consider how those risks could be mitigated.
Under the guidance of experienced consultants, you will be guided through a tried and tested approach that will not only improve the quality of your firm-wide risk assessments, but ensure it can be replicated to be the backbone of your financial crime controls in 2024.
Through this masterclass, you’ll learn how to:
• Complete a comprehensive, yet proportionate assessment;
• Document the methodology in a clear, reliable way; and
• Use the outputs of the risk assessment to inform and enhance the financial crime framework.
Masterclass topics covered include:
• Adopting and embedding the latest FCA requirements and industry guidance in your BWRA.
• Providing an in depth look at the business wide risk assessment process.
• Grasping why it’s crucial to get it right, provide tips and tricks we’ve learned by assisting a myriad of firms in developing their BWRA tools and methodologies.
• Sharing best practice from peer firms – specifically, how to keep the BWRA proportionate yet comprehensive and scalable.
• Recognise good and poor practice – common themes Avyse has identified through their Skilled Person and broader advisory work
Working through an example risk assessment, you will learn how to:
• Avoid the pitfalls most firms make when carrying out and documenting their BWRA.
• Understand and apply different methodologies for carrying out a financial crime risk assessment. This will include:
o Identifying and assessing risks; and
o Identifying and assessing the effectiveness of key controls.
• Replace a tick box exercise approach with a living document to identify ‘real risk’ and that stands up to internal and external scrutiny.
• Determine how to use the outputs of the risk assessment to support internal decision-making processes, including where to enhance controls and allocate additional resources.
• Review, update and improve your BWRA by applying the key principles discussed.
• Conduct with confidence a risk assessment that follows industry good practice
• Explain with confidence to key stakeholders the reasoning and rationale of your BWRA
Who should enrol:
• Heads of Financial Crime / MLROs / Deputy MLROs
• Heads of Compliance and Compliance Leads
• Governance specialists
• Firms currently going through specific registration / authorisation applications.

30th Anniversary of EIS
2024-09-18
In 2024, we are celebrating 30 incredible years of the Enterprise Investment Scheme. Three decades of founders, investors and more using the EIS to support UK startups to become household names, create life-changing health technology and more.
Join the Enterprise Investment Scheme Association and the EIS/SEIS ecosystem to celebrate!
We will be holding an exciting in person conference, bursting with important speakers and conversations you won’t want to miss.
There will be talks throughout the evening, followed by an evening reception, where you will be served delicious drinks and canapes.
The event will be filled with entrepreneurs, advisers and investors celebrating all that EIS has enabled the UK to achieve so far, and the vital role it has had in ensuring a world leading ecosystem.
Additional tickets can be bought by members and non- members here.
Join us for the 30th Anniversary Event
Date: Wednesday 18th September
Venue: Institute of Directors, 116 Pall Mall, Central London
Tickets: EISA members will receive one complimentary ticket. You can buy additional tickets, or non-member tickets.
The event will include food and drink throughout the day including a standing buffet lunch, tea, coffee & cake breaks, and drinks and delicious canapes at the evening reception.
The agenda for the 30th Anniversary event:
The conversation will spread understanding of how the EIS has benefited the UK economy, and how it will continue to do so well into the future.
You’ll hear from SEIS and EIS success stories, and get an insight on how to access the schemes yourself.
Learn more here.
Who will be speaking at the 30th Anniversary of EIS?
We will be announcing the speakers over the next few weeks. Follow our LinkedIn and check our website regularly to be the first to know.
Sponsors and Partners
We are very grateful that the 30th Anniversary event is supported by our partners, please stay tuned for sponsor updates.
If you would be interested in becoming a sponsor or partner, please get in touch with Olivia at olivia@eisa.org.uk

PIMFA Compliance Conference 2024
2024-09-19 08:30 - 18:00
We are proud to announce that the PIMFA Compliance Conference 2024 will be taking place on September 19, in London AND online.
Hear from leading industry experts on the key issues facing compliance professionals in the investment management and financial advice world.
Bringing together a high-level audience who can engage with the experts, this conference will facilitate fruitful discussions with opportunity for questions and networking.
Who attends?
• Compliance consultants, Managers, Heads of, Group Compliance officers
• Risk professionals
• C-suite executives
• Heads of Finance
• MLRO
• Investment Managers and Directors
• Regulators
• Government bodies
• Policy advisers and professionals
• And many others
When booking your ticket please be sure to choose the correct option – IN-PERSON or VIRTUAL.
The Compliance Conference will be live-streamed on the day of the event and if joining virtually you will have the opportunity to ask questions live to speakers and panellists.
Those attending in person will have the opportunity to network with fellow industry colleagues, speakers and sponsors.
The early-bird discount is available until June 30th– prices will increase thereafter.
If you have any questions or have any interest in speaking or sponsoring this event please contact events@pimfa.co.uk
Venue:
Date: 19 September 2024
Times: 08:30: – 17:45
Venue: Herbert Smith Freehills – Exchange House, Primrose St, London EC2A 2EG

The PIMFA M&A Roundtable Dinner
2024-09-24 18:30 - 20:00
The PIMFA Mergers and Acquisitions dinner is an opportunity for PIMFA members to gain valuable insight into the current M&A landscape impacting and effecting the sector. M&A experts from Farrer & Co. and Thistle Initiatives provide firm’s with an update on the current deal environment and what we can expect to see over the coming year.
Benefits for attending:
1. Hear insights into M&A trends, how they have changed and what’s expected to drive M&A activity this year.
2. Learn how to successfully navigate a deal process in the current environment.
3. Further your knowledge on the key due diligence activities in a merger and acquisition transaction.
4. Learn why some mergers and acquisitions fail and how to avoid the pitfalls.
Who should attend:
This is an invite only roundtable of PIMFA member firms with the following job titles:
• CEOs, managing directors and owners
• Finance directors and senior managers
• Finance and commercial team leaders

Regulatory Updates: Blueprint for Success
2024-09-26 10:30 - 11:30
Staying compliant is crucial to avoid legal penalties, fines, and reputational damage.
Join us in our upcoming live webinar, where we look at how to be proactive in compliance and enhance your firm’s ability to compete in the marketplace, by fostering trust and reliability.
In Ruleguard’s latest live event, we will delve into identifying your compliance universe before dipping into horizon scanning and tips for keeping on top of regulatory developments.
Our upcoming session will cover the following areas:
Defining the compliance universe
Linking obligations and activities
Managing regulatory developments
Evidencing compliance
Whether you’re a risk or compliance professional, this session is perfect if you’re looking to enhance and transform your existing compliance model.
To learn more about our regulatory updates solution visit https://www.ruleguard.com/solutions/regulatory-updates-software.

The PIMFA Transaction Reporting Academy Cohort 2 2024
2024-10-08 10:00 - 2024-10-29 12:30
Live, tutor-led online sessions, with our partners Kaizen Reporting
The challenge
Accurate and complete MiFIR transaction reporting is a legal obligation. Yet many financial firms, even those with significant resources dedicated to this complex requirement, are falling short of regulatory expectations. Quality assurance testing by regulatory specialists Kaizen have found that only 13% of MiFID II transactions are reported accurately.
The consequences of incorrect reporting are serious and include regulatory scrutiny and sanctions, as well as the significant cost and resource involved in remediating incorrect reports.
The solution
The PIMFA Transaction Reporting Academy (TRA) is an innovative, practical and results-focused learning experience that augments your core reporting skills while deepening your knowledge in key areas of the MiFIR transaction reporting requirements.
Please click here for more information

1
Overview and how to report by trading scenarios
8th October 2024
10:00 – 12:30

2
Transaction reporting by instrument type
15th October 2024
10:00 – 12:30

3
Common issues & Remediation
22nd October 2024
10:00 – 12:30

4
Systems & Controls and Corporate Actions
29th October 2024
10:00 – 12:30

PIMFA Webinar: Two years of IFPR – Observations, Takeaways and Actions!
2024-10-09 11:00 - 12:00
The FCA still believe that firms subject to IFPR, can and must improve the implementation of the internal capital adequacy and risk assessment (ICARA) process and reporting requirements under IFPR. Identifying good practices in many firms, the FCA still found ‘significant failings’ in applying capital models for operational risk.
In this FREE 60-minute webinar, Thistle Initiative’s experts unpack the FCA latest expectations, highlighting where and how PIMFA member firms must revisit their IFPR implementation and ICARA reporting to ensure the adequacy and operating effectiveness of your ICARA process follows good industry practice
By attending this webinar, you will learn how to:

Identify areas of improvements in your most recent ICARA document and wind-down plan.
Recognise instances of poor regulatory data submissions.
Build additional rigour around your approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating harms.
Correctly forecast liquid asset threshold requirements.
Building in FCA Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process (SREP) resilience into the ICARA.

PIMFA D&I Awards 2024
2024-10-10 18:30 - 23:59
SHORTLIST ANNOUNCED
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL FINALISTS
PIMFA is the trade association for the wealth management, investment services and financial advice sector. One of its roles is to promote talent, diversity and inclusion within this space, highlight best practice and develop initiatives to help build an industry which better reflects its increasingly diverse customer base.
There are many instances of good practice which remain hidden or unrecognised. Businesses both large and small will have examples of innovation aimed at improving their inclusivity and performance, which in turn drives positive change across the industry.
Further, there is a stream of exceptional, diverse talent coming up through the ranks in our industry that is changing businesses for the better, engendering greater support for diverse communities and clients, and helping to develop and lead innovation.
We have launched the PIMFA D&I Awards to celebrate this.
The Awards are FREE to enter and open to all firms and stakeholders in the sector – you do not have to be a PIMFA member to enter.
Please see the 2024 timeline below:
April 10 – Entries are open
June 21 – Entries close
WC July 15 – Shortlist announced
October 10 – Winners announced
For further information and to see this year’s categories and criteria click here
If you have any questions about booking your table for the 2024 Awards ceremony, please contact PIMFA’s Events Team on events@pimfa.co.uk.
Awards ceremony details:
Date: October 10
Time: 18:30 – late
Venue: InterContinental Hotel, Park Lane, London

More information about the awards can be found here

PIMFA Live Online Training: Mastering Fair Value Assessments: Aligning with Consumer Duty Standards
2024-10-14 09:30 - 12:30
One of the most challenging outcomes of the Consumer Duty for firms to meet is that of fair price and value. In the opinion of the FCA, “many of the fair value assessments we [FCA] have seen do not rely on solid data and other credible evidence to justify the products’ value to retail customers. [Sheldon Mills quote Feb 2024]
The regulator’s information request to 20 of the largest firms asking about their delivery of ongoing advice services highlights the need for PIMFA members to test whether their value framework are fit for purpose and challenge whether they are capturing the appropriate data and metrics to evidence their products and services are delivering fair value.
In this live, tutor led online training course experts Alpha, show you how you can stay ahead of FCA expectations, identifying and addressing the regulators most recent concerns in assessing fair value and ongoing advice fees, so that you can take swift action to address any shortcomings in your approach.
By the end of this masterclass, you’ll be able to:

Refine and improve your ongoing advice annual review process in light of recent FCA concerns.
Confidently anticipate and respond, with evidence, to FCA questions and queries on your approach value assessments.
Pinpoint areas of immediate improvement to fair value assessment, ensuring it is aligned with industry good practice.
Map, with greater clarity, the critical data metrics required to identify consumer harm across different customer groups, (particularly vulnerable or potentially vulnerable customers)
Critically assess if your firm’s ongoing services are fairly priced

Who should attend?
• Compliance heads and leaders seeking to avoid foreseeable harm by enhancing and refining their fair value framework.
• Internal auditors keen to address shortcomings in their approach who now seek a more robust, data-driven approach for assessing fair value.
• Risk leaders who want to ensure that fair value outliers can be effectively identified and rectified with appropriate accountability mechanisms.
• Consumer Duty project leads who recognise the need for improvements, want to know how leading firms use data and MI to monitor fair value on an ongoing basis.
• Consumer Duty champions seeking to ensure their fair value analysis provide the board with a sufficient understanding of outcomes received across different customer groups.

Bring you colleague along for free!
Please use coupon 7SX5YB2X at checkout for 50% off 2 Tickets

If you experience any issues please email learning@pimfa.co.uk

Morningstar Adviser Forum, London 17 October
2024-10-17 14:00 - 16:00
Discover Morningstar’s latest research tailored for UK advisers. Perfect for those who’ve outsourced investments or want to enhance their practice.
Featuring:
• Topical Market Commentary
• Investment Management Insights
• Manager Research
• Behavioural Finance Perspectives
Elevate your advisory practice with Morningstar’s expertise.
Contact: Sarah Rouse: eventsmanager@morningstar.com
To book your place and for further information click here.

Routes into Finance – Relatability & Career Progression
2024-10-23 12:00 - 17:00
The Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) Birmingham committee would like to invite you to attend their upcoming Young Professionals’ Network (YPN) event, hosted by Aston University.
We hope that you will join us for this half-day event where we will hear from a number of professionals from within the finance industry, from recent graduates to established practitioners, who will share with us their thoughts, knowledge and advise on pursuing a career into finance and the different routes available.
Attendees will benefit from hearing from established local practitioners such as Graham Nicoll, Director of Wealth for Succession Wealth with over 20 years of experience in wealth management and Rob Craik, Deputy Head of Operations at EFG Harris Allday as well as many other individuals including those who will give their experience on their perspective of recently joining the industry.
This event is open to members and non-members alike so we hope you’ll join us at this event and make the most of our resources, aimed towards young professionals in the industry. Please either book your place via this website or email your first & last name and email address to events@cisi.org and we book your places for you.
The CISI Young Professionals’ Network, attracting young professionals between the ages of 18 and 35, focuses on harnessing your competitive edge and professional development skills, including leadership, communication, teamwork, problem-solving and adaptability – so you’ll feel like a superstar in your role.

Virtual Event: Understanding Customer Vulnerability – A Guide for Firms Launch
2024-10-24 14:00 - 17:00
There is currently a significant industry and regulatory spotlight on consumer vulnerability, and it is paramount that firms are able to identify, support and achieve good outcomes for vulnerable customers. The data requests of the wealth management industry and subsequent Dear CEO letters since November 2023 have shown this as a high priority and the expectation from the FCA that this is led from the top.
PIMFA has been working closely with the regulator and member firms this year to understand better the extent and range of vulnerabilities that customers may face and to ensure that firms can correctly identify and support those customers.
As part of our work, we will be launching a PIMFA Guide on Understanding Customer Vulnerability’, which will be a valuable reference aid and tool for firms to use. The Guide, based on our first version published in 2021, will assist firms with creating vulnerability strategies and implementing processes and procedures that will not only help to meet regulatory obligations but also identify opportunities to enhance how firms serve all their customers.
To mark the publication of the Guide, we will be holding an event on the 24th of October 2024, where we will hear from the FCA and a range of industry CEOs and practitioners to discuss the importance of this topic and to share views and best practices and we would like to invite you to attend this event as our guest. Please see details below:
Date: 24 October 2024
Time: 14:00 – 17:30
Venue: Online
Please note this is a virtual event which will be live-streamed. For further information please contact events@pimfa.co.uk
If you are a PIMFA Member- Please ensure you are logged in to your account first before adding a ticket to your basket to access the member discounts.

Risk Management: Tactics for Digital Assets
2024-10-30 10:30 - 11:30
In April 2023, FCA’s Sarah Pritchard highlighted at City Week that while cryptoassets are growing in popularity, many consumers don’t fully understand the risks involved. This lack of understanding poses significant risks not only to consumers but also to firms. With the introduction of consumer duty, firms face substantial consequences if they fail to meet regulatory standards.
Join our live event to discover key strategies for managing these risks effectively.
In this live webinar we discuss the following aspects:
• Key risk considerations
• Global regulatory themes
• Impacts for firms
• Crucial steps for success
• Ruleguard’s approach to risk management
To learn more about Ruleguard’s risk management solutions visit https://www.ruleguard.com/function/enterprise-risk-management-software.

Ready Steady Grow! Cambridge, 5th November 2024
2024-11-05 16:00 - 19:30
Ready Steady Grow! is an event for the investment ecosystem in Cambridge
EISA is back in Cambridge for another event that brings the EIS and VC ecosystem together to learn and connect.
Join us as the Enterprise Investment Scheme Association (EISA) returns for a session supporting everyone in the investment space, from founders to funds.
Date: 5th November, 2024, registration from 16:00 BST
Venue: Mills & Reeve Solicitors, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 1PH
You can register for this Ready Steady Grow event here!
What is Ready Steady Grow?
These events, brought to you by the Enterprise Investment Scheme Association, bring together small businesses, investors, IFAs, entrepreneurs and business advisers. The session will feature networking as well as panels of regional experts.
Ready Steady Grow events are designed to help each region of the UK with their EIS journey with a carefully constructed agenda featuring opinions from SME industry experts.
Agenda
4.00pm: Registration, Tea and Coffee
4.30pm: Welcome – Zickie Lim, Mills & Reeve
4.35pm: Paul Sullivan, British Business Bank
4.45pm: EIS – Dos and don’ts – Jan Fachot, PEM and John Kahn, Mills and Reeve
5.00pm: Under the bonnet with the Fund Managers – Olivia Wing, EISA (Chair), Sunil Shah, o2h Ventures, Jeffery Faustin, Jenson Ventures and Kealan Dolye, Symvan Capital
5:15pm Key Considerations for Startups – Eloise Morgan, Paragon
5.25pm: Journey of a Startup – TBA
5.35pm: Closing comments from EISA – Olivia Wing, EISA
5.40pm: Networking Reception
Networking over drinks and canapes.
Thank you to our Sponsors
We are very grateful to our sponsors for this event.
Thank you to British Business Bank, Charles Stanley, Jenson Funding Partners, Mills & Reeve, o2h Ventures, Paragon, PEM and Symvan Capital.
If you would be interested in sponsoring, please get in touch with the team here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ready Steady Grow!
Where else can you attend a Ready Steady Grow! event?
Throughout the autumn, we will be visiting cities across the UK. You can explore the full calendar here.
Who should attend this event?

Entrepreneurs looking to start a business, or access funding to take your business to its next level
Wealth managers looking to gain knowledge and expertise in EIS and small company investing
Investors looking to invest in the ‘next big thing’
Professional Advisors who want to help SMEs develop and grow

If you want to join, but don’t feel like you fit in these categories, get in touch with the team.
Will refreshments be provided?
Drinks will be available throughout, and canapés will be available during the networking section of the event.
Your data
We, the EISA, may share your personal data with third parties in certain circumstances including (but not limited to) our sponsors.
Before we disclose personal data to a third party, we take appropriate steps to ensure that the third party will protect personal data in accordance with applicable privacy laws and in a manner consistent with our privacy policy, which can be accessed here: https://eisa.org.uk/about-eisa/privacy-policy

Women in wealth - Empowering Future Leaders in Financial Services
2024-11-06 13:00 - 17:00
The Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) Bristol & Bath Committee are delighted to invite you to join them at this Women In Wealth Event at the University of Bristol whereby undergraduates and professionals in the industry will gain insight from the journeys of many esteemed women in the industry.
Join us on 6 November at Bristol University for the CISI Bristol & Bath Women in Wealth event! This inspiring gathering is designed specifically for young professionals aspiring to enter the financial services industry. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from a diverse panel of accomplished women who will share their insights, experiences, and journeys within the sector. Discover various pathways into financial services, gain valuable perspectives, and connect with fellow young professionals and CISI members, as well as non-CISI members. Don’t miss this chance to empower your future in finance!
Click here for more information.

Ready Steady Grow! Belfast, 6th November 2024
2024-11-06 16:00 - 19:30
Ready Steady Grow! is an event for the investment ecosystem in Belfast
EISA is back in Belfast for another event that brings the EIS and VC ecosystem together to learn and connect.
Join us as the Enterprise Investment Scheme Association (EISA) returns for a session supporting everyone in the investment space, from founders to funds.
Date: 6th November 2024, registration from 16:00 BST
Venue: Ormeau Labs, 18 Ormeau Ave, Belfast BT2 8HS
Register for this Ready Steady Grow event here.
What is Ready Steady Grow?
These events, brought to you by the Enterprise Investment Scheme Association, bring together small businesses, investors, IFAs, entrepreneurs and business advisers. The session will feature networking as well as panels of regional experts.
Ready Steady Grow events are designed to help each region of the UK with their EIS journey with a carefully constructed agenda featuring opinions from SME industry experts.
Agenda
The event is split into two parts – a technical seminar at 16:30, followed by a breakout session and networking from 17:30.
Agenda to be updated
4.30pm: Welcome
4.35pm: British Business Bank
4.45pm: EIS – Dos and don’ts
5.00pm: Under the bonnet with the Fund Managers
5.25pm: Journey of a Startup
5.35pm: Closing comments from EISA
5.40pm: Networking Reception
However, you can be sure there will be content and speakers to help you on your EIS journey, wherever you are in the ecosystem. Keep your eye on this page for updates!
There will also be opportunities to network over drinks and canapes.
Thank you to our Sponsors
We are very grateful to our sponsors for this event.
Thank you to British Business Bank, Charles Stanley, Ormeau Labs and Raise Ventures.
If you would be interested in sponsoring, please get in touch with the team here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ready Steady Grow!
Where else can you attend a Ready Steady Grow! event?
Throughout the autumn, we will be visiting cities across the UK. You can explore the full calendar here.

Who should attend this event?
Entrepreneurs looking to start a business, or access funding to take your business to its next level
Wealth managers looking to gain knowledge and expertise in EIS and small company investing
Investors looking to invest in the ‘next big thing’
Professional Advisors who want to help SMEs develop and grow

If you want to join, but don’t feel like you fit in these categories, get in touch with the team.
Will refreshments be provided?
Drinks will be available throughout, and canapés will be available during the networking section of the event.
Your data
We, the EISA, may share your personal data with third parties in certain circumstances including (but not limited to) our sponsors.
Before we disclose personal data to a third party, we take appropriate steps to ensure that the third party will protect personal data in accordance with applicable privacy laws and in a manner consistent with our privacy policy, which can be accessed here: https://eisa.org.uk/about-eisa/privacy-policy

Increasing pay transparency and pay equity: a global issue
2024-11-08 08:00 - 17:00, 2024-11-12 17:00 - 18:00
Pay transparency, both as a value in itself and as an element of pay equity, is rapidly becoming a pivotal issue across the globe. Driven by legislation, regulatory activity, and cultural expectations, the rapid pace of change makes it essential for organisations to stay informed and prepared.
In this session our panel of lawyers from the U.S., UK, Ireland and Belgium will review the trends in pay equity and transparency across the globe, providing insights into possible future directions of pay transparency and equity measures.
We will also more specifically explore the current status of pay transparency/equity requirements in the U.S., UK and in the EU, including in relation to the EU Pay Transparency Directive, and will then consider how in practice organisations are addressing compliance requirements on an international scale.
Key topics will include:
– The history and evolution of pay transparency and its relationship with pay equity
– Where we are now in key jurisdictions and a comparative analysis of practices in the U.S., the EU, the UK amongst others
– Practical steps and strategies for organisations
– Future trends and what organisations need to be doing to plan for the future
Who should attend this session?
This webinar will be of interest to HR directors/managers, in-house counsel, and compliance professionals from global organisations particularly those with responsibility for operations in the U.S., UK and Europe.

PIMFA Webinar: Harnessing the Power of AI to Transform Wealth Management
2024-11-11 11:00 - 12:00
AI promises so much, but does it really delivery for wealth management?  In this FREE live 60-minute session our experts get beyond the hype to show you how AI-driven solutions are driving changes in the back, front and middle office to streamlining portfolio management, personalising client interactions, and improve investment decision-making.
We will discuss real-world case studies showcasing the successful integration of AI into financial services, highlighting the measurable benefits of increased scalability, reduced operational costs, and enhanced client satisfaction.
Furthermore, attendees will gain insights into the ethical and regulatory considerations essential for the responsible deployment of AI in wealth management. Our expert panel will provide practical tips on overcoming common challenges and maximizing the potential of AI to stay ahead in a competitive market.
Don’t miss this opportunity to understand how AI can be a game-changer for your wealth management practice. Register now to embark on a journey towards smarter, more efficient financial advisory services.

How employers can manage the increasing mental health issues amongst younger workers
2024-11-13 08:00 - 17:00, 2024-11-28 12:30 - 13:30
Contact details: Stephanie Pollard (stephanie.pollard@clydeco.com) | +44 7843 833 106
Mental ill health is one of the leading causes of sickness absence in the UK but look beyond the headline statistics and we see that younger workers are disproportionately impacted by mental health issues.
Join us for a special webinar where Counselling Psychologist Mr Simon Brittz from HCA Healthcare will join Employment Partner Chris Holme to look at how employers can manage the rising mental health issues amongst younger workers 💼
Our speakers will give their expert insights on what is driving the rise in mental health issues among younger workers, spotting the warning signs that an employee is experiencing difficulties and key practical steps employers can take to support their employees, manage legal risks and prepare managers to deal with mental health issues.
📆 28 November, 12:30-1:30PM GMT

PIMFA Webinar: Client Vulnerability: Meeting and Exceeding FCA Expectations
2024-11-18 11:00 - 12:00
Against a backdrop of changing customer expectations and needs, regulatory fines, Dear CEO letters and frequent regulatory announcements, the need for Wealth Managers, Private Banks, and Financial Advice and Planning Firms to deliver improved outcomes for customers with characteristics of vulnerability has never been greater.
But just what is expected of firms?   What does ‘vulnerability’ really mean for our sector, clients, and work?   And how do we take realistic, relevant, and proportionate action to address it?
To ensure your firm’s approach to the identification, treatment, and outcomes monitoring of customers in vulnerable circumstances meets the FCA’s forthcoming guidance and expectations, we discuss with Christ Fitch, Vulnerability Lead Consultant, The Money Advice Trust  how your firm can:

Design, execute and transform your strategy and operating model to better deliver for customer vulnerability.
Align your approach to customer vulnerability with industry best practices.
Implement new approaches to understanding, managing, and serving customer vulnerability.
Create a commercially realistic and impactful plan for dealing with your firm’s most critical challenges for customers with characteristics of vulnerability.

The PIMFA HR Briefing 2024- Session 4: AI and Employment Law: Navigating the future of work
2024-11-19 11:00 - 12:00
AI has already begun changing the way we work, and further change in the coming years is inevitable.  The FCA and PRA have outlined their strategic approaches to AI regulation, focusing on promoting safe and responsible use while fostering innovation. Meanwhile, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has indicated that it will be focussing on the use of AI in recruitment and developing solutions to address bias and discrimination in AI systems.
The Labour government has also indicated it will be considering how to promote best practice in safeguarding against threats to privacy through surveillance technology, spy ware and discriminatory algorithmic decision-making.  While AI will no doubt open a number of opportunities for employers, its increased use will also come with risks, and it is important that employers grapple with these from an early stage.
In November’s HR forum, we explore what AI means for HR and employment law with Clyde & Co’s employment team.
Key topics will include:
The regulators’ strategies for the regulation of AI in financial services
AI in HR procedures – hiring, day-to-day work, and redundancies and dismissals
Risks in relation to discrimination and data protection
Recent cases and lessons learnt
What does this mean for HR going forward?
Don’t miss this opportunity at 11am on 19 November 2024 to gain valuable insights and get your questions answered by Chris Holme and Shadia El Dardiry.

PIMFA Live Online Learning: Mastering Your Ongoing Compliance with Consumer Duty
2024-11-20 09:30 - 12:30
The FCA review of Consumer Duty implementation within payment firms published in October 2024 found that just over half were satisfactory, while nearly half were categorised as needing “significant work” to meet the Duty’s requirements. In yet another reminder, the FCA expects your firm to identify gaps in your compliance with the Duty and “act immediately, putting plans in place to address shortcomings.”
In this live, tutor-led online training masterclass, led by consultancy firm Square 4, our tutors will help you demonstrate that the FCA’s latest guidance has been considered, identifying gaps, shortfalls, and actions required to evidence that your firm is meeting their ongoing obligations with the Duty.
By the end of this masterclass, you’ll be able to:

Assess and prioritise the tasks your firm’s needs to undertake to ensure alignment with FCA’s ongoing Consumer Duty expectations.
Rectify and remediate the gaps in your MI and data to ensure you meet the regulatory expectations.
Enhance processes and controls to monitor customer outcomes across your customers, including those with vulnerability.
Implement processes to amend and adapt products and communications where risks of potential harm are identified.
Overcome common challenges, weaknesses and failings Square 4 has observed in firms’ approach to outcomes monitoring and testing.
Assure your Consumer Duty champion and senior managers that your firms’ policies, process and people are in line with industry best practices.
Ensure that your firm has effective Consumer Duty centric reporting and governance arrangements in place.
Ensure that your firm is able to effectively identify and proactively remediate and crystallised or potential consumer harm.

In this masterclass you’ll cover:

An effective 3LOD model to ensure Consumer Duty compliance
The importance of clear roles, accountabilities and responsibilities
Effective outcomes monitoring / testing frameworks
Consumer Duty MI and data requirements
Effective governance, reporting and remediation practices

Who should attend:

C-level officers concerned about their firm’s ability to create and maintain the Consumer Duty cultural shift.
Consumer Duty champions seeking to understand what good ongoing compliance practice looks like and benchmark their firm.
Compliance leaders who are not content with standing still are looking to undertake a range of activities to address identified poor outcomes as well as improve the testing methodology and processes.
Regulatory risk professionals and in-house auditors who want a better understanding of what processes, reporting, governance and controls should be in place.

Please use early bird coupon JDJNEGB5 at checkout for 50% off 2 Tickets
If you are a PIMFA Member- Please ensure you are logged in to your account first before adding a ticket to your basket to access the member discounts.

PIMFA Webinar: What Senior Managers Need To Know
2024-11-26 14:00 - 15:00
FCA fines against firms and individuals totalling £87 million so far in 2024 indicate a serious knowledge gap among senior managers in financial services firms. They are often unprepared and overwhelmed to interpret and respond appropriately to the volume and complexity of regulatory change for which they are responsible.
In this FREE 60-minute webinar, experts from CCL Academy unpack what you, as a newly appointed or current senior manager, need to know to make better and more informed decisions to meet the rising expectations of staff, your board, and the regulator.
Key discussion points include:
1. What recent FCA fines tell us what senior managers need to learn in 2025.
2. The three most common knowledge gaps found among senior managers which expose their firms to severe risks and uncertainties.
3. How smart leaders build the breadth and depth of their regulatory knowledge to make better holistic decisions for their firm.

Ready Steady Grow! Oxford, 26th November 2024
2024-11-26 16:00 - 19:30
Ready Steady Grow! is an event for the investment ecosystem in Oxford
EISA is back in Oxford for another event that brings the EIS and VC ecosystem together to learn and connect.
Join us as the Enterprise Investment Scheme Association (EISA) returns for a session supporting everyone in the investment space, from founders to funds.
Date: 26th November, 2024, registration from 16:00 BST
Venue: Saïd Business School, Park End St, Oxford OX1 1HP
Register for this Ready Steady Grow event here.
What is Ready Steady Grow?
These events, brought to you by the Enterprise Investment Scheme Association, bring together small businesses, investors, IFAs, entrepreneurs and business advisers. The session will feature networking as well as panels of regional experts.
Ready Steady Grow events are designed to help each region of the UK with their EIS journey with a carefully constructed agenda featuring opinions from SME industry experts.
Agenda
The event is split into two parts – a technical seminar at 16:30, followed by a breakout session and networking from 17:30.
The agenda is yet to be released.
However, you can be sure there will be content and speakers to help you on your EIS journey, wherever you are in the ecosystem. Keep your eye on this page for updates!
There will also be opportunities to network over drinks and canapes.
We are very grateful to our sponsors for this event.
Thank you to British Business Bank, Charles Stanley, Oxford Capital and Saïd Business School.
If you would be interested in sponsoring, please get in touch with the team here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ready Steady Grow!
Where else can you attend a Ready Steady Grow! event?
Throughout the autumn, we will be visiting cities across the UK. You can explore the full calendar here.
Who should attend this event?

Entrepreneurs looking to start a business, or access funding to take your business to its next level
Wealth managers looking to gain knowledge and expertise in EIS and small company investing
Investors looking to invest in the ‘next big thing’
Professional Advisors who want to help SMEs develop and grow

If you want to join, but don’t feel like you fit in these categories, get in touch with the team.
Will refreshments be provided?
Drinks will be available throughout, and canapés will be available during the networking section of the event.
Your data
We, the EISA, may share your personal data with third parties in certain circumstances including (but not limited to) our sponsors.
Before we disclose personal data to a third party, we take appropriate steps to ensure that the third party will protect personal data in accordance with applicable privacy laws and in a manner consistent with our privacy policy, which can be accessed here: https://eisa.org.uk/about-eisa/privacy-policy

PIMFA Webinar: CASS: The calm before the s166 storm
2025-01-14 11:00 - 12:00
Before the FCA initiates a Section 166 review of your firm’s approach to CASS, the regulator typically takes several preliminary steps to assess your firm’s compliance and risk profile. Yet for many firm’s the regulators actions before a s166 is triggered, remain a mystery.
In this FREE 60-minute webinar, we unpick the crucial steps leading up to a Section 166 notice, demystifying the key processes and interactions the FCA undertakes before a review of a firm’s approach to CASS is initiated.
To avoid a painful and costly review of your CASS governance and oversight arrangements, our panel our experts discuss:
1. How the FCA is conducting routine supervisory activities on your approach to CASS in 2024.
2. How the regulator uses data from regulatory submissions and reports to assess and manage your firm’s CASS risks.
3. How a firm’s CASS compliance breaches informs the FCA’s decision-making process.
4. How to identify and assess issues that could lead to a s166 review of your firm’s CASS culture, governance, and organisational arrangements.
5. How to proactively use market intelligence, thematic reviews, and inspections to eliminate weaknesses in your CASS environment.

PIMFA Webinar: CASS Skilled Person Review: How to Respond, Tackle and Avoid Action
2025-01-21 11:00 - 12:00
The FCA’s Section 166, “Skilled Person Review,” is one of the regulator’s go-to tools they’re not afraid to use, when assessing your firm’s compliance with the CASS rules. No need to be concerned? Think again, as s166 reviews continuing to rise across the sector, firms should be in no doubt that the FCA is prepared to appoint an independent third party to conduct a ‘drains up’ review of your approach to CASS.
Even for the largest firms, a S166 review is intrusive, expensive, time-consuming, and incredibly resource-intensive as your firm attempts to demonstrate effective risk management and adherence to regulatory standards.
In this FREE 60-minute webinar, we’ve assembled a panel of FCA-appointed skilled persons alongside specialists in CASS compliance to answer your most pressing concerns about the s166 review process. No question is off limits as we tackle:
1. ‘Help, we’ve got a s166 notice!’
2. What to do if The FCA commissions a s166 review
3. How to get the most from a CASS s166 review
4. The costs of a skilled person review
5. The foolishness or wisdom of challenging the findings of a s166 review
6. The most effective strategies to avoid a skilled person review

PIMFA Learning: The SMF Regulatory Briefing Programme 2025 - All You Need to Know About Everything That Matters Most
2025-01-28
What the FCA expects from Senior Managers
The FCA takes the competence of your Senior Managers very seriously. Upon applying to become an SMF, the FCA expects an individual to demonstrate a high level of skill and knowledge to carry out the role, supporting their application by completing a skills gap analysis, learning and development plan, and competency assessment.
Remaining Fit and Proper
But the regulator’s scrutiny of an SMF doesn’t stop at the application stage. The FCA expects your firm to ensure that your SMF holders continue to possess the requisite skills, particularly concerning the latest regulatory developments. Annual fit and proper assessments, mandated by the regulator and conducted by your firm, are not a ‘tick box’ exercise requiring you instead to carefully assess whether your senior managers are competent in performing their roles.
The solution
PIMFA’s new 12-month ‘SMF Regulatory Briefing Programme’ supports SMF holders in learning everything they need to know about the issues that matter most to them. It also prepares prospective SMF holders for the highest level of leadership. The programme consists of a series of live, monthly, online one-hour sessions on critical compliance, risk and financial crime challenges, enabling SMFs to:

Keep up to date with the latest regulatory trends and initiatives
Demonstrate their commitment to regulatory proficiency
Access the training at a convenient time, through our on-demand learning platform
Document CPD activity as required

Highlights and key outcomes
By enrolling on ‘The SMF Regulatory Briefing Programme 2025’, SMFs will be able to:

Evidence to the FCA their in-role competency and capability required under SMCR.
Rapidly assess the firm’s compliance exposure and vulnerabilities.
Get ahead and make sense of a broad, complex, and ever-evolving regulatory and compliance landscape.
Set priorities to develop a proactive regulatory change management programme.
Lead your firm on how best to mitigate risks, create a firm-wide compliance culture, make sound decisions, and build resilience across the business.
Improve their strategic thinking and ability to respond to regulatory change effectively.
Explore with peers the latest research and best practices for managing risk to safeguard enterprise value.

Session format
Each session includes a mix of expert-led presentations, real-world case studies and small group discussions.
Programme topics and schedule
Through 12 sessions, SMFs develop the knowledge and insights on the latest regulatory changes and compliance challenges required to protect their firm’s assets, reputation, and competitive advantage.
Format: 12 x 1-hour monthly sessions
Delivery: Live, expert-led online learning sessions
Start date: 28 Jan 2025 – 11th Dec 2025
Duration: 12 months
