Work 'on' your business, not 'in' it - Rory Percival

Former FCA technical specialist goes independent

Victoria McKeever
clock • 3 min read

Fresh from leaving the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) on Friday and launching his own consultancy on Tuesday, Rory Percival shares his thoughts on innovation and raising industry standards.

Advisory firms need to do more to challenge their existing proposition, says the regulator's former technical specialist, who argues this is particularly the case for smaller firms that are serving local clients and are possibly more inclined to maintain the status quo. "There is a minority of firms - and I think it is a minority - that, while exceptionally good and trying to do the right thing, have not spent enough time working 'on' the business rather than 'in' it," he says. "This could stem from a possible reluctance to innovate or perhaps not knowing whether - or where - it's approp...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on People

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor summoned to give evidence in adviser fraud trial

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor summoned to give evidence in adviser fraud trial

To appear in court in December

Isabel Baxter
clock 04 November 2026 • 2 min read
Plannr names Guy Tolhurst as CEO

Plannr names Guy Tolhurst as CEO

Follows 18 months working with leadership team

Sophia Panayi
clock 02 November 2026 • 2 min read
People Moves: Standard Life hires CEO of retirement solutions and group CIO

People Moves: Standard Life hires CEO of retirement solutions and group CIO

Michelle Ostermann joins with more than 30 years’ experience

Professional Adviser
clock 02 November 2026 • 1 min read