Innovate Finance hires former government adviser as head of policy
A former government adviser who helped lead the first state investment in peer-to-peer lending has been appointed as head of policy at Innovate Finance.
Adam Jackson spent four years as director, enterprise at the department of business innovation and skills, where he was responsible for government policy on small business and entrepreneurship and led the first investment by any national government in P2P lending and start-up loans through the British Business Bank.
He will work with Innovate Finance’s membership and the wider fintech ecosystem to help shape policy and support a positive regulatory landscape for firms and consumers.
Jackson also has experience from advising Grant Thornton’s board and clients on policy and public affairs.
He setup his own consultancy last year, working with organisations in financial services, including insurance brokers and community finance.
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“I am delighted to join the dynamic team at Innovate Finance, supporting an incredible group of members in the fintech sector,” said Jackson.
“This is an exciting time as the sector continues to grow and mature, creating jobs and prosperity across the UK, through the innovation of our financial services to better meet customer and societal needs.
“Innovate Finance has already given UK fintech a powerful voice, and the Kalifa Review sets a clear course. I look forward to building on this momentum to advance policies that make the UK the world’s best fintech ecosystem.”
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“I am absolutely delighted to welcome Adam to our growing Innovate Finance policy team at such a pivotal moment for the continued growth of the sector,” said Janine Hirt, chief executive of Innovate Finance.
“Adam brings vital experience in both public policy and finance to the role at a time when we have a real opportunity to build on the backing from government to ensure financial services are fair and equitable for all.
“The UK is known for its world-leading regulatory system that has opened the way for innovation to flourish in our financial services sector.
“We want to see the continuation of this forward-thinking regulatory approach, while ensuring that consumers are fully protected, and Innovate Finance is committed to working with the government, regulators and our members to make this happen.”