Fairer Finance is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Pond as Chair of its Consumer Advisory Board (CAB).
With a distinguished career dedicated to consumer protection, financial inclusion, and public service, Chris brings a wealth of expertise to the independent consumer group that ensures Fairer Finance remains committed to prioritising the interests of consumers over commercial considerations.
The Fairer Finance Consumer Advisory Board plays a critical role in overseeing the consumer group's activities, scrutinising its commercial relationships, research, ratings, campaigning efforts, and media commentary to uphold transparency and independence.
Chris Pond is a highly respected figure in the financial services sector, currently serving as Chair of the Financial Inclusion Commission and Trustmark. He was formerly chair of the Lending Standards Board, The Money Charity, and the Equity Release Council Standards Board. Chris was a member of the senior leadership team of the Financial Services Authority for four years, serving as Director of Financial Capability, Senior Adviser, and Head of Consumer Affairs, leading the development of the Financial Capability Division, and the establishment of the independent Money Advice Service. From 1997 to 2005, Chris was the Member of Parliament for Gravesham, during which time he held roles as Work and Pensions Minister and ministerial aide in the Treasury.
Sue Lewis has served as Chair for the last two years and will remain on the Board until her term ends in 2025. Laurie Edmans is also leaving the Board after serving six years. Walter Merricks OBE, Caroline Barr, and Helene Brichet remain as Board members. All Consumer Advisory Board members serve on a voluntary basis.
James Daley, Managing Director of Fairer Finance, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Chris as Chair of our Consumer Advisory Board. The CAB plays a crucial role in protecting Fairer Finance’s independence by ensuring that we manage our conflicts of interests in a transparent and professional manner. Chris has a wealth of relevant experience - both as a regulator and consumer advocate - which make him a perfect candidate for this role. We’re incredibly lucky to have him on board.
“I’d like to thank Laurie Edmans who is standing down after six years on our advisory board. Laurie’s been a valued supporter and colleague, and we’ll miss him enormously.”
Chris Pond, Chair of the Fairer Finance Consumer Advisory Board, commented: “As Fairer Finance celebrates its 10-year milestone, I look forward to working with the team to continue to advocate for transparency, higher standards, and a more inclusive financial services market for all consumers.”