In conversation with... James Atkin

What was your journey to your role today, would you say it’s been a typical career path?

I began as a solicitor in a good full service commercial firm.  I really enjoyed the variety of work, helping start-ups one day, and meeting government in Whitehall the next.  I’m still in touch with some clients from 20 years ago.  I received good advice to embrace new challenges for growth, so I’ve been lucky to experience a variety of sectors, cultures and journeys.  Moving from Defence PFI to Financial Services might not be typical, but I’ve loved the road and there are parallels.

If you weren’t working in credit and financial services, what would you be doing?

I’d be a landscaping contractor in Cornwall.

What is something that not many people know about you?

I’ve been a national champion twice.  I don’t like to talk about it.

What is the most significant challenge facing the credit/financial services industry today?

Fraud.

Which session or theme at Credit Week are you most looking forward to, and why?

I’m keen to get a real sense of how organisations are approaching financial inclusion.

What trend or development are you excited about in the credit / financial services sector?

I think increasing data sharing will benefit consumers in a variety of ways.

What do you hope to take away from Credit Week 2026?

Positivity about organisations’ willingness to embrace change.

What advice would you give to someone who’s starting their career in the industry?

Be flexible and collaborative.  There are so many opportunities and the right mindset is key. 

Join James at Credit Week 2026!