LSE-AIM listed e-banking and international payments firm Equals Group plc (formerly FairFX) has announced the appointment of Sian Herbert as an Independent Non-Executive Director. The appointment will become effective as of 1 October 2020, with Sian taking the position of Head of the Audit Committee.

Sian Herbert has had an extensive City career spanning 35 years within audit, financial crime, risk and regulation, focusing on the financial services and technology sectors. She gained 25 years’ experience at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (‘PwC’), including fifteen years as Partner, stepping down in June 2020. At PwC, Sian was a partner within the forensic services group, becoming an established expert in financial services, e-money and payment services, advising on financial crime, risk, regulatory change and the impact of technology.

As well as being a member of the ICAEW, Sian is also a Member of the Hong Kong Society of Accountants.  Since July 2020, Sian has held a position as a Non-Executive Director of HBL Bank UK Limited.

Coinciding with the appointment of Sian Herbert, Bob Head, who has been a Non-Executive Director of the Company since July 2016, is stepping down from the Board. Following a brief transition period, Bob will officially step down from the Board on 1 October 2020.

Commenting on the changes, Alan Hughes, Non-Executive Chairman of Equals, said:

“We are delighted to be able to bring someone of Sian’s standing to lead the Audit Committee and contribute to the wider strategic initiatives of the Group. Sian is a distinguished practitioner, having spent decades advising the highest levels of management on corporate strategy relating to the impact of financial technologies and regulatory change. Her extensive knowledge will be of undoubted benefit to the Board and the Group.

“I would also like to thank Bob for his considerable contribution to the growth of Equals. As Chair of Audit and Risk, Bob has embodied the key assets of a Non-Executive both in his depth of knowledge and his challenge to the Board and executives. We wish him continued success in the future.”