The FINTECH Circle Board Programme
A curated programme for senior executives transitioning into board, advisor, and non-executive roles in fintech and financial services.
Programme Journey
Your Board Career Roadmap
Curriculum
Module 1: Board Fundamentals
• Board overview
• Directors’ duties in regulated sectors
• Role of Board vs Executive
• Sub-committees (Audit, Risk, Remuneration, Nomination)
• Advisory groups
• Key roles: Chair, SID, NED, CEO, CFO
• Governance frameworks & best practices
Module 2: Portfolio Career Strategy
- Advisory vs NED vs Fractional roles
- Working with founders vs CEOs
- Listed board dynamics
- Career progression: Advisor → NED → Chair
- Coaching importance
- Income mix & portfolio structuring
Module 3: Fintech Advisory & NED Landscape
- Fintech market dynamics
- Positioning & credibility
- Commercial structuring (fees, equity)
- Case studies
Module 4: Fundraising Journey
Ian Merricks — VenturePath
- Capital raising stages
- Founder pressures
- Round execution strategies
- Board advisor role in fundraising
Module 5: Regulatory Accountability
Hyder Jumabhoy – Partner, White & Case LLP
FCA & PRA governance expectations
Senior Managers & Certification Regime (SMCR)
Fiduciary, reputational, and personal risk exposure
Importance of D&O insurance
Module 6: AI for Board Members
Simon Poole — NED & AI Advisor
AI strategy and data foundations
Opportunities and risks of agentic AI
The board’s role in AI-driven transformation
AI regulation in financial services
Chair & NED Interviews
Insights from experienced board members on building a successful portfolio career.
Headhunter Sessions
Understand how board roles are sourced and how to position yourself effectively with leading search firms.