FD & F-Words

Tuesday 13 October
8:30am - 13.30pm
Sky View Office

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The challenges facing today’s finance leaders have moved far beyond the realms of cashflow and P&L. 

You’re expected to understand AI. Stay ahead of cyber threats. Navigate an unpredictable economy. Manage increasingly mobile teams. Anticipate changing tax landscapes. And somehow still find time to lead the finance function. 

That’s exactly why FDs & F-Words is back. 

Join us at a location near you this October for a morning of insight, discussion and practical takeaways designed specifically for ambitious finance leaders. 

On the agenda: all the spinning plates above and much more, tackled by expert speakers who can help you understand what’s next and what it means for your business. 

Across AI, cyber threats, tax & global mobility and an economic outlook from crowd favourite Mark Berrisford-Smith, you’ll leave with actionable tips to strengthen your business and make some great connections along the way. 

There’ll also be CPD points up for grabs, so if you’re an FD, CFO or senior finance lead, take a look at the dates below and secure your spot today. 

Meet Our Host & Speakers

Alison Fovargue

Relationship Partner at Cooper Parry

Ali is a Relationship Partner at Cooper Parry and host of FDs & F-Words. With more than 20 years’ experience advising ambitious businesses, she combines deep technical expertise with a naturally inquisitive approach, helping leaders tackle challenges, spot opportunities and navigate change with confidence. Ali will be guiding the conversation throughout the event and ensuring attendees leave with fresh perspectives and practical takeaways.

Read more about Ali here

Mark Berrisford-Smith

Independent Economist, Former Head of Economics at HSBC

Mark is a highly respected economist and former Head of Economics at HSBC UK, where he spent 33 years helping businesses make sense of global and UK economic trends. Renowned for his insightful analysis, sharp wit and engaging presentation style, Mark is a sought-after speaker who brings complex economic issues to life, offering practical perspectives on the forces shaping the economy and what they mean for business leaders.

Read more about Mark here

Saloni Thanki

Director - AI Transformation at CP Digital

Saloni is a technology and transformation leader with over 18 years’ experience across telecommunications, online media and financial services. She has led major digital, cloud and cyber security programmes on a global scale, delivering business value by aligning technology with customer and commercial needs. Known for building high-performing teams and bringing together technical and business leaders, Saloni helps organisations turn strategy into action. She is also a regular speaker at AI and technology events, sharing practical insights on innovation, leadership and successful transformation.

Read more about Saloni here

Lisa Dargan

CEO of URM Consulting Services

Lisa is CEO of URM Consulting Services, the cyber and information security specialist within the Cooper Parry group. She has built a strong reputation in cyber security, data protection, and risk management, helping organisations strengthen resilience and meet evolving regulatory requirements. Lisa plays a key role in integrating cyber security into broader business risk and assurance strategies.

Read more about Lisa here

Lucy Brew

Internal Audit Partner at Cooper Parry

Lucy is an Internal Audit Partner at Cooper Parry, helping organisations strengthen governance, improve internal controls and manage risk more effectively. With a background spanning Big Four audit and industry roles, Lucy adopts a practical, commercial approach to uncovering issues, driving operational improvements and protecting business value, helping boards and leadership teams navigate complex challenges with confidence.

Read more about Lucy here

Laura Burton

Tax Partner at Cooper Parry

Laura is a Global Mobility Tax Partner at Cooper Parry, specialising in helping organisations navigate the tax and compliance challenges that arise when employees work internationally. With extensive experience advising businesses on everything from overseas secondments and business travel to remote working and cross-border employment, Laura is known for translating complex global mobility and employment tax issues into practical, commercial advice that supports both employers and their people.

Read more about Laura here