At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead an FCA-regulated wealth management business and ensure operational stability during a transitional period.
- Company: International financial services group with a boutique UK wealth management division.
- Benefits: High-profile interim role with competitive daily rate and strong board visibility.
- Other info: Confidential search process with flexible interim positioning for senior executives.
- Why this job: Make an immediate impact in a respected regulated business and shape its future.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in private banking, wealth management, and FCA-regulated environments.
Exec Capital has been engaged to identify an Interim Chief Executive Officer (SMF1) for a London-based international wealth management business operating within an FCA-regulated environment. This is a senior interim leadership assignment requiring an experienced financial services executive capable of providing immediate regulatory oversight, governance leadership, and operational stability during a transitional period.
The current UK CEO is stepping down, and the business expects the search for a permanent replacement to take approximately 6–12 months. As a result, the firm is seeking an experienced interim executive who can assume the FCA Senior Management Function 1 (SMF1) role and provide leadership continuity from day one.
About the Business
Our client is part of a larger international financial services group employing several thousand staff globally. Its international wealth management division operates across London, Singapore, and Dubai, managing approximately $3 billion in assets under management. The London office is a boutique UK operation with a focused team supporting international private wealth clients and relationship managers.
The Interim Assignment
The successful candidate will act as Interim CEO and approved SMF1 function holder for the UK regulated entity. The mandate is primarily focused on:
- FCA regulatory oversight and governance
- Executive leadership of the UK business
- Maintaining operational and regulatory continuity
- Supporting a team of relationship managers and support staff
- Oversight of compliance, risk, and stakeholder management
- Liaison with boards, regulators, and international leadership teams
- Providing experienced leadership during the permanent CEO search process
This assignment is intended as an interim solution rather than a route into a permanent role.
Candidate Requirements
Exec Capital is specifically seeking senior candidates with substantial experience within:
- Private banking
- Wealth management
- FCA-regulated investment businesses
- International financial services environments
Ideal candidates are likely to be:
- Former CEOs, UK Heads, Country Managers, or senior board-level executives
- Previously approved for FCA SMF1 or similar Senior Management Functions
- Semi-retired, portfolio-based, or operating as independent consultants/interim executives
- Comfortable operating within governance-heavy and regulatory environments
- Able to start relatively quickly if required
- London-based or readily commutable to London
Due to the FCA-regulated nature of the appointment, the candidate pool is necessarily specialised. Applicants must be capable of securing FCA approval for the SMF1 Chief Executive function and possess the credibility and experience expected for regulator-facing leadership roles.
Why This Role May Appeal
This opportunity offers:
- A high-profile interim leadership mandate
- Exposure to an international wealth management platform
- A governance-focused assignment with strong board visibility
- The ability to make an immediate impact within a respected regulated business
- Flexible interim positioning suitable for experienced senior executives and portfolio professionals
Job Benefits
Confidential Search Process Exec Capital is handling this assignment on a confidential basis. Further details regarding the organisation, strategic plans, remuneration structure, and onboarding timeline will be shared with shortlisted candidates during the process. Indicative is £1,500 per day. To express interest or arrange a confidential discussion, please contact Exec Capital.
Interim CEO (SMF1) – Wealth Management / Private Banking employer: Exec Capital Recruitment
As an Interim CEO for a prestigious London-based wealth management firm, you will join a dynamic and supportive work culture that values regulatory excellence and operational stability. The company offers unique opportunities for professional growth within an international financial services group, allowing you to make a significant impact while working alongside a focused team dedicated to serving high-net-worth clients. With strong governance visibility and the chance to lead during a pivotal transition, this role is ideal for seasoned executives seeking meaningful engagement in a respected FCA-regulated environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim CEO (SMF1) – Wealth Management / Private Banking
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the wealth management and private banking sectors. Let them know you're on the lookout for interim roles, and who knows? They might just have the perfect lead for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready for those interviews! Brush up on your knowledge of FCA regulations and governance practices. Prepare to discuss how you can provide immediate leadership and stability during transitions—this is what they want to hear!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your previous roles as a CEO or senior executive. Make it clear that you’re comfortable in governance-heavy environments and can hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that could be a great fit for you. Plus, applying directly helps us keep track of your application and gives you a better shot at landing that interim role.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim CEO (SMF1) – Wealth Management / Private Banking
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Interim CEO role. Highlight your experience in private banking and wealth management, and don’t forget to mention any previous FCA SMF1 approvals. We want to see how you fit into our world!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:This role is all about leadership, so be sure to emphasise your executive experience. Share specific examples of how you've provided governance and operational stability in past roles. We love a good story that showcases your impact!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point—no fluff, just the good stuff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Exec Capital Recruitment
✨Know Your Regulatory Stuff
As an Interim CEO in a FCA-regulated environment, it's crucial to brush up on your knowledge of regulatory frameworks and compliance standards. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated these in past roles and how you plan to maintain operational stability during the transition.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
This role demands strong leadership skills, so come ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams through change. Highlight your experience in managing relationships with boards and regulators, as well as your approach to governance and oversight.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the wealth management sector, especially the nuances of private banking. Research the company’s position within the international financial services group and be ready to discuss how you can leverage that to support the team and clients effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in a regulatory context. Think about potential challenges the business might face during this interim period and how you would address them, demonstrating your strategic thinking and operational insight.
