The 2025 CCTA Annual Conference brought together leaders from across the consumer credit sector for a dynamic day of discussion, learning, and forward-thinking collaboration.

Held in Manchester, the event showcased the industry’s response to regulatory change, technological advancement, and the evolving needs of consumers.

The day began with a welcome from Jason Wassell, Chief Executive of the CCTA, who provided a thoughtful overview of the association’s recent activities and strategic direction. His opening remarks emphasised the importance of adaptability and innovation in a rapidly shifting regulatory landscape.

Following this, Nicola Crump of Square 4 delivered a compelling session on the role of artificial intelligence in outcomes testing. She demonstrated how AI can support firms in meeting the FCA’s Consumer Duty requirements by automating customer outcome assessments, offering both efficiency and improved compliance.

One of the standout sessions featured Asif Nadeem (Evlo) and Sara Dias-Foster (StepChange), who shared their collaborative model for improving customer outcomes. Their joint approach illustrated how partnerships between lenders and charities can deliver holistic support to vulnerable consumers.

Mike Ellicock then introduced the Plain Numbers method, a data-driven approach to improving numeracy communication. His presentation revealed that simplifying numerical information can double customer understanding – an insight with powerful implications for financial services.

Naveed Asif followed with an update on CCTA Academy, highlighting its expansion and accessibility. Now open to non-members, the Academy offers a growing suite of online training modules designed to upskill professionals across the sector.

The mid-morning sessions turned to regulation, with Mark Burns from the Financial Conduct Authority outlining the FCA’s strategic priorities for the consumer credit market. His talk emphasised transparency, fairness, and the importance of data in shaping policy.

A robust panel discussion followed, tackling key regulatory issues including reforms to the Consumer Credit Act, the role of the Financial Ombudsman Service, and the implications of motor finance commission review. The panel provided a balanced mix of legal insight and practical guidance, helping attendees navigate complex changes on the horizon.

Before lunch, Andrea Cox of Equifax explored the power of CATO (Current Account Turnover) data in lending decisions. Her session demonstrated how granular financial data can enhance affordability assessments and reduce risk.

Rebecca Denham from HM Treasury then provided a policy update, covering financial inclusion initiatives, Buy-now Pay-later regulation, and upcoming legislative changes. Her insights underscored the government’s commitment to balancing innovation with consumer protection.

A lively technology and innovation panel followed, featuring leaders from Aryza, LexisNexis, and coeo UK. The discussion centered on AI, data-driven lending, and the ethical use of technology in credit decisions. Panellists shared real-world applications and debated the future of automation in the industry.

Russell Kelsall of Walker Morris delivered a timely analysis of the Supreme Court’s decision in the Johnson case and its implications for compliance and redress. His legal expertise helped attendees understand the broader impact on motor finance and regulatory enforcement.

Lawrence Byers (Acquired.com) and Rachael Magowan (Moneyline) then introduced Variable Recurring Payments (VRPs), a new frontier in payment technology. They highlighted how VRPs offer greater flexibility and control for consumers, especially in budgeting and debt repayment.

The final session featured Charlotte Wilson from the Financial Ombudsman Service, who shared updates on modernising the redress system. She discussed proposed reforms to compensation structures and the FOS’s efforts to streamline dispute resolution.

The 2025 CCTA Annual Conference offered attendees a blend of regulatory insight, technological innovation, and collaborative spirit. From AI-driven compliance tools to legislative reform and payment evolution, the event reflected a sector that is not only responding to change – but actively shaping it.

As the consumer credit industry continues to evolve, this year’s conference reaffirmed its role as a catalyst for progress and a champion of better outcomes for consumers and firms alike. If you are keen to be involved in our 2026 event please get in touch.

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