Episode 4 of Everything Financial Services, Addleshaw Goddard’s financial services podcast, explores the employment law reforms set to reshape the financial services sector and the practical implications for firms preparing for significant regulatory and workplace change. Host Laura Uberoi is joined by guest David Palmer to discuss the employment trends, disputes and people issues currently affecting financial institutions.

The conversation examines the unique employment challenges facing regulated firms, including regulatory references, whistleblowing claims and the growing influence of AI tools such as ChatGPT and other large language models on workplace disputes. Laura and Dave discuss why employers are seeing new forms of employment litigation, how regulatory obligations can complicate employee exits, and the importance of balancing employment, investigations and regulatory considerations when handling sensitive workplace issues.

The episode also looks ahead to the UK's incoming employment law reforms, including new trade union access rights, changes to unfair dismissal protections and the removal of compensation caps. Dave shares his perspective on how these developments could influence workforce planning, restructuring decisions and employment risk management across the financial services sector. The discussion highlights why certainty remains critical for employers and why firms should be assessing the impact of these changes now rather than waiting for implementation.