At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead an FCA-regulated wealth management business and ensure operational stability.
- Company: International financial services group with a boutique UK operation.
- Benefits: High-profile interim role with competitive daily rate and flexible positioning.
- Other info: Confidential search process with strong board visibility and governance focus.
- Why this job: Make an immediate impact in a respected regulated business during a transitional period.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in private banking and wealth management, with FCA SMF1 approval.
London | Interim Assignment | FCA-Regulated Business
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 in London 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 dedicated team of experts in a governance-focused environment. With flexible interim positioning, this role is ideal for seasoned executives looking to leverage their expertise in a high-profile setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim CEO (SMF1) – Wealth Management / Private Banking in London
✨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 opportunity waiting for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Research companies that interest you and reach out directly. A well-timed email or call can set you apart from the crowd and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your regulatory knowledge and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss how you can provide immediate oversight and stability in a transitional period. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a range of exciting opportunities, and applying directly can give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate and keeps everything in one place.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim CEO (SMF1) – Wealth Management / Private Banking in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in private banking and wealth management. We want to see how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Interim CEO role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this interim position. We love seeing candidates who can articulate their leadership style and how they plan to maintain operational stability during the transition.
Showcase Regulatory Experience:Since this role involves FCA regulatory oversight, make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in governance and compliance. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know how you’ve navigated similar environments before!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
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 and the specific challenges it faces. Be ready to discuss market trends, client expectations, and how you can leverage your experience to support the team and drive success during this interim period.
✨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 and how you would address them, ensuring you demonstrate your strategic thinking and decision-making skills.
