The Bvalco Team

Her persistent curiosity to improve Board effectiveness and Board Director performance has significantly influenced corporate governance. This was evident in her role as a special advisor on culture and behaviour to Sir David Walker for his Review of Banks and Other Financial Institutions, which led directly to the recommendation in the UK Corporate Governance Code for Boards to conduct externally facilitated Board Reviews every three years. Furthermore, she co-founded and designed the FT's award-winning Non-Executive Director Diploma, where she continues to be a lead tutor and Advisory Board Member. The Diploma has 2000 plus graduates from across the World.

Academically, Alison holds an MA in Experimental Psychology and Neurophysiology from Oxford University and a master’s in business research from Henley Business School. She is also a distinguished author and thought leader, contributing to significant books and reports such as Effective Directors – The Right Questions to Ask (2022); Kindness in Leadership (2018); and The Walker Report Annex on Board Behaviour in Banks and Other Financial Service Institutions (2011).

Bringing a unique high-performance perspective to her work, Alison is a former triple Olympian with the British Rowing team and remains involved in and passionate about elite sport. She still loves to compete herself in a range of sports, most frequently of the equestrian kind.

A former barrister and partner at Norton Rose LLP, James developed a reputation for helping clients to manage corporate governance issues, going on to help create the firm’s corporate governance initiative. He was also invited to contribute to Sir David Walker’s Review of Banks and Other Financial Institutions. He is valued for his intelligent interview technique and ability to deliver succinct and meaningful recommendations.

James is also a keen fundraiser, most recently raising £60,000 for Norfolk’s unpaid carers by walking from Norfolk to Santiago di Compostela. He also recently held the accolade of being appointed High Sheriff of Norfolk, a role appointed annually by the Crown, which he used to highlight the sterling work done by the volunteers in the county.

He focuses on corporate governance and the responsibilities of directors both in the context of financial services but more generally under Companies Act obligations.

He has advised a wide range of banks and investment firms on their corporate governance obligations, including HSBC (over its establishment of their ring-fenced bank), Northern Trust and Bank of China.

Peter also acts as a consultant editor of the Practitioner’s Guide to Individual Conduct and Accountability in Financial Services Firms, published by Thomson Reuters.

He also enjoys studying for his degree in French & History, painting, cycling and entertaining his three grandchildren.

Katrina's background is in behavioral psychology. She worked as a development specialist within a large media organisation and then for over 20 years as a facilitator and coach across sectors that include advertising & marketing, media & comms, financial and professional services, charities, and sports.

She holds a degree In Experimental Psychology from University College London and is a member of the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development (CIPD)  and the British Psychological Society (BPS).

His diverse career spans professional performing arts, strategic roles in media and publishing, and extensive experience in charity governance roles, including as a trustee. A qualified leadership coach, with a proven commitment to social impact, notably through pioneering arts education for vulnerable young people. Simon is also a civil celebrant.