For Charlie Hansford, a career in compliance wasn’t as unlikely a progression from Criminology as it might first appear.
Charlie joined RQC Group in April 2026 as a Consultant, bringing more than five years’ experience within UK-regulated financial services. He supports clients across a range of regulatory and compliance matters, including policies and procedures, regulatory applications, compliance monitoring and ongoing oversight.
His interest in regulation, however, began much earlier.
“I studied Psychology at school, which included a criminology module and first sparked my interest in the subject. I went on to study Criminology at university, which I loved and where my first real exposure to compliance matters and all different regulations started.”
Compliance in practice
Charlie began his financial services career in Jersey before moving into UK compliance roles, where he saw first-hand the importance of embedding good governance into everyday business processes.
“Good governance is most effective when there are clear responsibilities, reliable records and appropriate challenge. Done well, oversight supports the business, strengthens decision-making and helps identify issues before they become more significant.”
Before joining RQC Group, Charlie was a Compliance Monitoring Team Lead, supervising a portfolio of Appointed Representatives. That experience reinforced his view that compliance is an ongoing responsibility rather than a periodic exercise.
“The real test is whether daily decisions, controls and records show that policies are being followed in practice.”
Today, Charlie’s work ranges from compliance monitoring reviews and manual updates to financial promotions, FCA applications and specific regulatory queries. Understanding each client’s business allows him to turn detailed requirements into practical, proportionate actions.
“The most rewarding part is helping clients move from uncertainty to a clear way forward, so they understand what they need to do, why it matters and how to approach the next steps with confidence.”
What should firms be watching?
Charlie highlights artificial intelligence, crypto assets and the continuing regulatory focus on individual accountability and governance. Firms need to consider ownership of risk, human review, data controls, record-keeping and escalation arrangements.
“Technology is developing rapidly, and regulation will continue to respond. That creates challenges, but it also makes this an especially interesting time to work in compliance.”
His approach combines technical expertise with clear communication.
“Clients rely on us to be accurate and considered, but it is equally important to be pragmatic, approachable and willing to listen.”
Helping clients navigate that change requires technical expertise, but Charlie puts equal weight on how that expertise is delivered.
For Charlie, clear communication is central to that approach, helping clients understand not only what they need to do, but why, without being overwhelmed by technical language.
Beyond the office
Outside work, Charlie loves to travel. A highlight was spending Christmas and New Year on Australia’s east coast, including the Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef and Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks. A recent visit to Nashville also stood out, while Asia remains high on his list.
“I am always open to changing the plan when another interesting destination or unexpected opportunity comes along.”
Perhaps a fitting outlook for someone whose working life is centred on navigating change and finding a practical way forward.
