Operations Unpacked: The CISI

In this episode of CISI Operations Unpacked, Andrew Muir unpacks the evolution from ISO 15022 to ISO 20022 and explains why it is central to the digital transformation of financial services.Andrew outlines why ISO 20022 was developed, by whom, and how its structured, data-rich messaging model improves on legacy standards. He breaks down the key components of the ISO 20022 framework and explains how it interacts with SWIFT as part of the global migration programme.The discussion explores which firms are impacted — from banks and payment providers to custodians, market infrastructures, fintechs and even organisations that may not initially realise they fall within scope. Andrew shares practical examples of firms using ISO 20022 to enhance straight-through processing, improve data quality, and strengthen financial crime controls.The episode also examines what gives ISO 20022 an edge over alternatives — including richer data, interoperability and future-proof design — while addressing the challenges and unintended consequences firms face during implementation.A clear and practical guide to why ISO 20022 matters, who it affects, and how it is reshaping financial operations.

In this episode of Operations Unpacked, hosts Victoria Sena and Rachel Clark engage with Nathan Young to explore the concept of a ‘Second’. Nathan explains that a Second is not merely a role but a specific type of person who thrives in supportive positions. The conversation delves into the traits that define Seconds, the importance of followership, and the distinction between risk aversion and change aversion. Nathan also discusses the rarity of Seconds in the workforce and how individuals can identify and develop their Second nature. Real-life examples illustrate the vital role Seconds play in organisations, emphasising the symbiotic relationship between Seconds and First-in-Command leaders. The episode concludes with resources for further exploration of the Second identity.

In this episode of Operations Unpacked, hosts Victoria Sena and Rachel Clark sit down with Natasha Mackintosh from bdh Sterling to lead about a Day in the Life in Business Operations. They discuss challenges and opportunities that come with a career in operations; how to navigate steep learning curves; the importance of mentors in early stages of a career; what a typical day in operations looks like; the importance of policies and procedures; how operational staff can be leaders; what moving to another country involves; what makes a good operational professional beyond technical capabilities; what to do when things go wrong; important operational skills; what the EOS system is; and how to lead teams that may be unseen, but are critical to the success of a business.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. 

In this special episode of Operations Unpacked presenter Victoria Sena gives listeners a peek behind the scenes of the CISI Compliance and Operations Conference at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh, Scotland. Victoria holds exclusive interviews with some of the speakers and attendees that made the day what it is – a celebration of compliance and operations:Colin Anderson, Senior Relationship Manager at the CISI provides an overview of what’s planned for the day Professor Donald MacLean, Business Strategy Specialist shares his expertise on strategy Stephen Ingledew OBE, Chairman of FinTech Scotland provides an overview of the work of FinTech Scotland Shaid Moughal, Head of Client Assurance, Aberdeen Group plc gives an exclusive on what’s in store for the afternoon sessions Tracy Vegro OBE, CEO of the CISI discusses the CISI’s Certificate in AI and why having women in Operations matters Amarjit Singh, Blockchain Leader educates listeners on blockchain and digitisation Dorothy Hamilton, Director of Supplier Management at M&G speaks about the importance of DE and I and its impact on profitability and operational excellence Orla Grassom, Future Assets graduate and student attendee shares her experience of the Future Assets programme and reflects on her highlight of the day 

In this episode of Operations Unpacked, hosts Victoria Sena and Colin Anderson sit down with Paul Darroch Groden to explore what true agility looks like within the fast-moving world of financial services. Drawing on his extensive industry experience, Paul sheds light on how organisations can adapt at pace, build resilient operating models, and empower teams to innovate in the face of constant regulatory and market change.From practical strategies for streamlining operations to the cultural shifts required for genuine transformation, this conversation offers clear, actionable insights for leaders looking to future-proof their organisations. Whether you’re navigating digital transformation, rethinking customer journeys, or driving operational excellence, Paul’s perspective brings clarity to the complexities of modern financial services.Tune in for an engaging, thoughtful discussion on agility in action—and how to bring it to life across your organisation.

In this insightful episode of The CISI’s Operations Unpacked, hosts Victoria Sena and Colin Anderson explore the evolving landscape of hybrid working — a model that has redefined how, where and when we work. Joined by industry experts Shaid Moughal and Andrew Welsh, the discussion delves into the benefits and challenges of balancing office and remote environments, and how organisations can adapt to make hybrid working both productive and sustainable.From maintaining team culture and collaboration to navigating wellbeing, technology and regulatory considerations, this episode unpacks the practical realities and strategic shifts shaping the post-pandemic workplace. Whether you’re an operations professional, team leader or simply curious about the future of work, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on what hybrid working really means in today’s financial services industry.

In this episode of Operations Unpacked, hosts Victoria Sena and Alan Burr sit down with Tom Gell from ISO Serious to explore the crucial link between data protection and ISO 27001. Together, they discuss what it really means to manage information securely, how organisations can align with the standard, and the practical steps to achieve compliance without unnecessary complexity. Whether you’re beginning your ISO journey or refining your data governance practices, this episode offers clear insights and actionable advice from industry experts.

In this episode of Operations Unpacked, we’re joined by Julia Dreblow, founder of SRI Services and a leading voice in sustainable investment. Julia takes us through the purpose, evolution, and real-world impact of the Sustainable Disclosure Requirements (SDR) — exploring how these regulations are reshaping the UK investment landscape.We unpack what SDR means for asset managers, advisers, and investors, how it builds on previous sustainability frameworks, and what it could mean for the future of responsible finance. Julia also shares her perspective on the challenges and opportunities that come with greater transparency and the shift towards genuinely sustainable outcomes.Whether you’re an operations professional, sustainability specialist, or simply curious about the next chapter in responsible investment, this conversation offers clarity, context, and expert insight into one of the most significant regulatory changes in recent years.🎧 Tune in to understand how the SDR is influencing the way we define, deliver, and disclose sustainability across financial services.