James Smyth: Don't overlook HR's hidden potential for your business

Incremental 1% improvements

clock • 4 min read

Small improvements in the human resources side of financial services businesses will be key to tackling the bigger challenges that lie ahead for the sector, argues James Smyth

Helping people and businesses obtain the most return from their investment is the lifeblood of the financial services sector yet how many firms can say their internal processes deliver the same value? Staffing is probably your biggest expense - so clearly, if your team is not working as well as it could, you will not see the most value from it. Many business professionals, whether they work in human resources (HR) or not, understand the importance of recruiting the right people for the job, then engaging them to drive performance. They may also recognise their own HR policies - or lack t...

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 Your profession

Culture is the most effective risk tool wealth managers are missing out on

Culture is the most effective risk tool wealth managers are missing out on

'Understanding a firm's culture is understanding its risk profile'

Bev Shah
clock 09 January 2026 • 5 min read
FCA sets October 2027 date for implementation of cryptoasset rules

FCA sets October 2027 date for implementation of cryptoasset rules

Issues further guidance

Michael Nelson
clock 09 January 2026 • 1 min read
WH Ireland shareholders back Team takeover in key vote

WH Ireland shareholders back Team takeover in key vote

FCA clearance still required

Sahar Nazir
clock 09 January 2026 • 3 min read