BRC Finance Community Horizon Scan

Chris manages the BRC’s Finance Community and has recently joined the organisation after working in public policy roles for a range of companies and organisations, including TikTok, Which? and Ofcom. He has extensive knowledge of current digital policy matters and online advertising regulations and has extensive experience in engaging with government and regulators, advocating for better consumer outcomes in markets and in shaping legislation.

Jacqui is an Audit Partner and Head of Consumer Markets at RSM UK. A leading voice in the retail sector, she has more than 20 years’ experience advising a diverse portfolio of consumer brands, from large privately owned businesses to private equity-backed and fast-growing retailers. With deep sector expertise and strong commercial insight, Jacqui works closely with businesses to help navigate market challenges and identify growth opportunities.

Her passion for the industry extends beyond her advisory role; Jacqui is also a retailer herself. Her womenswear boutique was recognised as a Best New Retailer finalist at the Drapers Independents Awards, giving her first-hand insight into the realities of modern retail. A recognised industry commentator, Jacqui regularly provides insight and commentary for major media outlets including Sky News, the BBC, the Financial Times, The Guardian, Drapers and Fashion Network.

Jack is VP Policy & Research at TrueLayer where he leads engagement with UK and EU regulators and authorities and sits on a number of committees as a fintech and regulatory expert. He is a former policy adviser at the UK banking regulator the FCA. There he led work to create the FCA’s approach to regulating firms under the revised Payment Services Directive (PSD2) and new open banking rules.

Zoe is a Risk Assurance Director and Senior Financial Services Industry Analyst in the consulting practice at RSM UK. With more than 20 years’ experience in financial services, she specialises in UK consumer-focused regulation and advises banks, lenders and financial services firms on navigating evolving regulatory expectations, including the Financial Conduct Authority’s Consumer Duty and vulnerable customer requirements. Zoe is also one of RSM’s recognised voices on the evolving Buy Now, Pay Later and wider consumer credit landscape, regularly contributing insight for clients, industry discussions and the media on regulatory developments and market trends.

In 2025, Zoe was selected for RSM’s Industry Eminence Programme, which brings together senior specialists focused on the economic, business and technology trends shaping the future of financial services.

Sarah is a Financial Accounting and Advisory Partner at RSM UK. With more than 25 years’ experience, Sarah advises listed and privately owned businesses through complex financial reporting and accounting challenges, with particular expertise in supporting organisations through periods of change and transformation.

Sarah works closely with finance teams across a range of sectors, including retail and consumer markets, helping businesses navigate acquisitions, restructurings, refinancings and evolving reporting requirements. Her experience gives her strong insight into the practical challenges retailers face in balancing financial performance, stakeholder expectations and regulatory compliance.

Sarah is recognised for her practical and collaborative approach, helping businesses translate complex accounting and reporting changes into clear commercial and operational impacts.

James is a Partner and Head of Employer Solutions for the Central region at RSM UK, specialising in employment taxes and employee reward strategies. With more than 20 years’ experience, James advises businesses of all sizes on navigating the evolving employment tax landscape, helping organisations balance workforce strategy, compliance and cost optimisation.

James works closely with retail businesses and is recognised for helping organisations identify practical opportunities to improve efficiency while responding to changing regulatory and workforce expectations.