SMF1 Best Practice Areas: Leading a Firm Under the FCA Regime

Introduction

The Chief Executive function (SMF1) is the most senior executive position within SMCR. The inherent responsibility for the conduct of the whole business is clear. The SMF1 holder carries ultimate accountability for the conduct and outcomes of the entire business and cannot escape accountability for any aspect of the firm through delegation.

It is widely known that the FCA will hold CEOs personally accountable for significant breaches, cultural failings and governance lapses and failures in non-financial misconduct. The Duty of Responsibility creates a high bar, and CEOs must demonstrate proactive and reasonable steps to prevent regulatory breaches and ensure a robust, ethical and consumer focused culture across all areas of the firm.

This webinar is designed for current CEOs and those preparing to assume the SMF1 function. It covers the scope of SMF1 accountability, the regulatory expectations that apply at the most senior level and practical insights into demonstrating leadership under SMCR.

What You Will Learn

This short webinar will cover the following:

• Explain the scope of SMF1 accountability and regulatory expectations
• Guidance on demonstrating accountability for firm culture including non-financial mis-conduct and Consumer Duty considerations
• Best practices for effective oversight and appointment of other Senior Managers
• Strategies to maintain constructive and proactive relationships with regulators

This pre-recorded webinar will be available to view from Friday 9th October 2026

Alternatively, you can gain access to this webinar and 2,300+ others via the MBL Webinar Subscription. Please email webinarsubscription@mblseminars.com for more details.