Executive Summary

This event is inspired by the idea that the Financial Services Sector seems to be riddled with a “profit before principles” mindset and a “money before morals” mindset; and that, unfortunately, these mindsets might even exist amongst some of those in positions of leadership and influence. 

It could be argued that it’s impossible to imagine having a financial services sector that sincerely serves society, unless the policymakers, politicians, regulators, leaders of the major trade bodies and associations; and, of course, the leaders of all commercial organisations in the market, lead it correctly. 

We make this point because even just a casual glance at the level of fines against the financial services sector forces us to conclude that there has been, and continues to be, widespread malpractice, malfeasance, misconduct and mis-selling; all of which has taken place on the watch of those that have been in charge.

For a very good example of the type leadership in financial services that has led to awful problems, you can watch the YouTube videos on Senator Elizabeth Warren versus Wells Fargo Bank, relating to how Wells Fargo Bank was caught cheating its customers. Please get in touch if you would like links to those videos. 

However, in complete contrast to the leadership at Wells Fargo Bank, there are also superb examples of individuals with precisely the conviction, qualities and character that the sector desperately needs. 

Unfortunately, they seem to be relatively few and far between, which makes us wonder: 

• How can we make their exceptional and enlightened approach to leadership less scarce?
• How can we help to positively promulgate virtuous leadership?
• How can we better recognise leaders that “do the right thing, simply because it’s the right thing to do”

“Leadership is absolutely about inspiring action, but it is also about guarding against mis-action”

– Simon Sinek

Our symposium will explore the thinking behind those quotations; and how leadership interacts with other key topics such as culture, reward mechanisms, governance; and much more. 

This is a fascinating topic and clearly, there is going to be a great deal to think about and discuss! 

If, like us, you want real and meaningful improvements to the financial system then please ‘stand up, not stand by’ – please get involved with the event because we need all the help that we can get to galvanise support for positive, progressive and purposeful finance reform.