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Simon Bladon
Managing Director - Strategic and Regulatory Transformation at Barclays
Professional Background
Simon Bladon is an accomplished Managing Director at Barclays, showcasing over 20 years of comprehensive expertise in finance, law, regulatory frameworks, corporate governance, strategic advisory, and business transformation. With a solid foundation in legal practice coupled with extensive experience in financial markets, Simon has emerged as a leader in the field, consistently contributing to strategic insights that drive growth and compliance within the organization. His career began at Linklaters, a prominent international law firm, where his journey unfolded across various global offices including London, São Paulo, and Madrid. This opportunity allowed Simon to immerse himself in diverse financial markets starting in 1999 as a financial markets solicitor.
In 2004, Simon transitioned to Barclays Capital, where he played a pivotal role through significant phases, including the build-up to the financial crisis and subsequent remediation efforts. His exceptional performance eventually led to his appointment as Managing Director and Head of Legal for EMEA and Markets, where he ensured robust legal compliance and risk management for the investment bank, forming a foundation for Barclays’ operations in the region.
Simon's career took an exciting turn in June 2015 when he was invited to spearhead the Group Strategy initiative, specifically focusing on the regulatory implementation of key bank-wide initiatives. His leadership was instrumental in the creation of Barclays International, a response to the UK’s structural reform agenda, among other critical strategies including the expansion into Barclays Ireland within the context of Brexit and the implementation of the FCA/PRA Senior Managers Regime. His strategic mindset has positioned Barclays at the forefront of regulatory compliance while navigating through complex market dynamics.
By June 2018, Simon’s expertise was further recognized when he joined the Group Head of Strategy to establish and lead the first-line risk management and structuring for Barclays Ventures. In this role, he concentrated on creating transformational new business lines, leveraging technology and strategic partnerships to drive innovation within Barclays and enhance its capability in the financial services sector. Simon’s forward-thinking vision and commitment to excellence have significantly contributed to Barclays' ongoing evolution as a leading global bank.
Education and Achievements
Simon Bladon holds an illustrious educational background that equips him with a profound understanding of law and finance. He studied Spanish Law at the University of Valencia, which not only broadened his legal knowledge but also immersed him in a different cultural and regulatory landscape vital for an international lawyer. Following this, he pursued a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) with a specialization in Law with Spanish Law at the University of Nottingham. This robust academic foundation was enhanced by his completion of the Legal Practice Course at Nottingham Law School, solidifying his proficiency in legal practice. Additionally, Simon’s education commenced at the renowned Manchester Grammar School, further illustrating a commitment to academic excellence from an early age.
Achievements
Throughout his impressive career, Simon has consistently demonstrated leadership, strategic implementation, and an unwavering commitment to regulatory excellence. As the Managing Director of Strategic and Regulatory Transformation at Barclays, he has played a crucial role in navigating the complexities of financial regulations and corporate governance. His insights and leadership during pivotal times in the company’s history reflect his expertise in risk management and strategic advisory.
Under Simon's leadership, Barclays has successfully adapted to numerous regulatory changes while enhancing its operational structures, significantly contributing to its resilience in the ever-evolving banking landscape. His efforts in establishing Barclays International and spearheading initiatives addressing the challenges of Brexit further exemplify his ability to leverage industry knowledge and foresight to drive innovation and growth.
In addition to his roles within Barclays, Simon's foundational experience at Linklaters provided him with unique insights into financial markets, allowing him to navigate complex legal landscapes with confidence. Simon Bladon stands as a testament to the synergy of legal expertise and strategic acumen, playing a vital role in steering Barclays toward a promising and innovative future.
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