James Turner

Tell us your story:

I have been a lawyer working in financial services for over 20 years, and that has very neatly aligned to what could loosely be called the fintech era. I have worked across multiple law firms, the regulator, big banks and multiple fintechs, especially in the payments and digitisation fields.
I love the problem-solving, almost tangible nature of working as a lawyer in fintech, especially when it's combined with opportunities to shape the law as it develops. Now I get to work with a dynamic, innovative and ambitious team here at Travers Smith - and in fact, in a matter of days we will host our annual Future of Fintech conference, bringing together 200 of the key figures in the field - so I get to have a highlight that I help design and curate every year!

Impact:

In the very first months of my career, I was told that I was a natural networker. I'm not 100% sure that it was meant as a compliment(!), but I have embraced it and regard participation in workplace LGBTQ+ affinity groups - my gay job, if you like - as equal in importance to the day job. I think I have been in 10 or 11 depending on your exact definition.
I am quite literally visible and authentic, as I would once have been described (certainly in the City) as "flamboyantly dressed" (translation: I only wear grey suits to wear multi-coloured shirts, and I thoroughly enjoy my tie and cufflink collections!) - but in 2025 I only ever get compliments, not contempt.
We have a fabulous community here in the fintech world and I want more people to see that - and see the benefits.

Advice:

Be honest, be unapologetic and be you - it's far too hard trying to be someone else.