S&W appoints regulatory expert

Professional services group S&W has appointed Chris Hemsley to its economic advisory practice, strengthening its financial services and payments capabilities.

Chris brings more than 20 years’ experience across economic regulation, competition policy and consumer protection, and joins from specialist regulatory consultancy Fingleton.

He previously served as executive director and board member of the Payment Systems Regulator and chief executive of the UK Regulators Network.

His career also includes senior roles at the Office of Rail and Road, the Civil Aviation Authority and within government.

He will work alongside partners Schellion Horn and Jonathan Gillham, with a particular focus on supporting financial services and payments clients facing complex economic and regulatory challenges.

Chris said: “I am delighted to be joining S&W at such an exciting stage in the development of its economic advisory practice. 

“The combination of deep technical expertise, an ambitious growth strategy and a genuinely multidisciplinary advisory model creates a compelling platform for clients and colleagues alike.

“Organisations are operating in an environment shaped by rapid technological change, evolving regulation and increasing scrutiny from policymakers and regulators. 

“I look forward to working with Schellion, Jonathan and colleagues across the firm to help clients understand these challenges, seize opportunities and make confident, well-informed decisions.”

Chris’ appointment follows the launch of S&W’s economic advisory practice in May, which provides support across competition, regulation, disputes and public policy.

The practice also works closely with S&W’s consulting, forensics and restructuring teams.

Schellion Horn, partner, economic advisory, S&W, added: “Chris brings a rare combination of senior regulatory, policy and economic expertise, gained from some of the UK’s most influential regulatory bodies. 

“His experience advising on complex competition, regulatory and consumer issues with a strong focus in financial services and regulated sectors will be invaluable as we continue to grow our economic advisory practice.”

Guy Swarbreck, head of financial services at S&W, added: “Chris’ appointment strengthens S&W’s already strong financial services credentials and reflects our commitment to building a market-leading advisory offering for dynamic institutions, banks, fintechs and payment firms.

“I’m looking forward to Chris working with colleagues across our economic advisory, regulatory consulting, assurance, data and technology and advisory teams to bring his deep payments and regulatory expertise to bear in helping clients navigate the opportunities and challenges facing the sector.”

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