New executive directors for FCA markets, operations

The Financial Conduct Authority has made two permanent appointments to its executive team. Simon Walls becomes Executive Director, Markets, and Johan Sekora joins as Chief Operating Officer in early June.

Walls to drive market resilience

Simon Walls has been appointed permanent Executive Director, Markets, providing continuity after serving temporarily since 2024.

He will strengthen the FCA's approach to wholesale markets and ensure a more resilient financial system by rebalancing risk and supporting growth.

Walls joined the FCA in 2006, holding senior roles across wholesale markets, including policy, asset management, and banking supervision.

He played a key role in navigating significant events affecting markets, such as the LIBOR transition and the UK's exit from the EU.

Walls stated: "Britain's financial markets have been defined for centuries by innovation, openness and integrity.

I'm delighted to lead such a committed and professional team at the FCA as we deliver our ambitious markets work to further these traditions.

In partnership with government and industry, we are building momentum - ensuring great outcomes for domestic and international users of markets.

"

Sekora brings international operational expertise

Johan Sekora has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, relocating from Stockholm to take up the role at the start of June.

He will play a central role in supporting the FCA's strategy and ambition to be a smarter, more effective regulator.

Sekora brings over 25 years of experience in financial services, having been a leading European voice on industry collaboration and the use of technology to tackle financial crime.

He has worked extensively on accelerating the use of data and artificial intelligence to address emerging risks.

Sekora commented: "I very much look forward to joining the FCA team.

As the leading and largest European regulator, the FCA leads from the front in many regulated areas by protecting customers, driving smarter regulation, and combatting financial crime through collaboration and the use of AI.

"

Reinforcing the regulatory backbone

The FCA's executive team additions reflect a strategic focus on internal strength to navigate external complexities.

Walls provides crucial continuity for market reforms, while Sekora's expertise promises a more agile, tech-driven regulatory operation.

This dual reinforcement is essential for the FCA to meet its ambition of being a smarter, more effective regulator in a dynamic financial environment.