Sebastian Sayer

Described in Chambers and Partners as a ‘tough litigator’ with ‘exemplary approachability, articulacy and responsiveness’, Seb advises both corporate and individual clients on complex contentious financial services regulatory, investigations, and white-collar crime matters.

He has a particular specialism in advising on investigations – whether conducted by law enforcement agencies or regulators, as part of a public-facing inquiry, or carried out internally (such as by an employer). Seb also undertakes independent investigations on behalf of firms seeking an external, objective perspective.

A subject matter expert in insider dealing, financial crime, money laundering, and bribery issues, Seb also regularly advises clients on the FCA’s Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SMCR). His expertise covers the FCA’s Conduct Rules, personal account dealing rules, systems and controls failures, non-financial misconduct, governance matters, and Senior Manager applications.

Seb’s clients include banks, investment firms, FinTechs, and other financial services firms, as well as senior individuals working within them. He frequently collaborates with colleagues in Fox Williams’ employment department, ensuring that clients receive integrated regulatory and employment law advice.

Individually ranked in both Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners, Seb brings the insight of having previously worked for five years in the FCA’s Enforcement division. As a senior prosecutor, he led numerous high-profile investigations and prosecutions, including multiple trials at Southwark Crown Court. He maintains strong connections with colleagues at the regulator.

A barrister by background, Seb practised in chambers prior to joining the FCA.