Approaching Social Media with Confidence – building a visible, credible and compliant online presence
This Consumer Duty Practitioner Forum webinar offers a practical session on the importance of social media for advisers, how to overcome common barriers, understanding the rules and responsibilities (as both an AR or DA firm) and will leave you with simple frameworks for effective online engagement.
In this session, we cover:
• what “good” social media content can look like in a regulated context
• common confidence blockers (and how firms are addressing them)
• balancing authenticity with risk and compliance
• practical examples of approaches that are working in the real world
Resources from the webinar
Approaching Social Media with Confidence slide deck, which includes a QR code to download an ‘Essential Social Media Guide for Advisers’ - Making the most of social media (CDA)
Financial Promotion Checklist - Financial promotions checklist
SPEAKER PROFILES
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MICHAEL LAWRENCE
Consulting Lead, Ocorian and Chair of Consumer Duty Practitioner Forum
Michael worked at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for 16 years, most recently as a Technical Specialist in Consumer Investments supervision.
He joined Ocorian’s Wealth team in February 2023 to advise clients on the regulatory frameworks governing advised and non-advised pension/ investment models, product governance, as well as complaints and redress.
His vast knowledge and extensive background make him the ideal choice to lead this Forum.
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Chris Miles
Chris joined SM Advice as Managing Director in July 2025, following eight years at the Openwork Partnership, where he held several senior leadership roles and chaired the LGBTQ+ colleague network group. With a 25-year career in Financial Services, he brings deep expertise across Wealth Management, Later Life Lending, Protection, and Mortgages, offering a broad and well-rounded perspective.
Chris is particularly passionate about making financial services marketing more engaging and accessible. He believes that “safe” doesn’t have to mean “boring,” and is a strong advocate for helping firms communicate with clarity, creativity, and confidence while remaining fully compliant.
Outside of work, Chris is a passionate amateur artist and finds joy in his studio or on long forest walks with his family and rescue dog, Luna Sanchez.
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Claire Mellon
Claire Mellon is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (FCIM), Co-founder and Chief Client Officer at Cohesion Financial Solutions and brings over 25 years’ experience across financial services, marketing, client experience and strategy.
She specialises in how firms communicate with clients in a way that builds trust, improves understanding and drives better outcomes, particularly in the context of Consumer Duty. Her work focuses on simplifying complexity, making financial conversations more accessible and helping people feel confident engaging with financial advice.
Claire is a Practitioner Panel member for the Consumer Duty Alliance, where she contributes to the development of practical, real-world approaches to communication and client engagement. She also sits on the Steering Group of the Women’s Wealth Alliance, supporting industry-wide progress in improving financial outcomes for women.
At Cohesion, Claire leads on client experience, brand and communication, ensuring advice is delivered with clarity, empathy and professionalism, balancing technical expertise with genuine human connection.