Reflections on 2024: AJC’s Year of Progress and Preparation

As we step into 2025, AJC is filled with optimism and excitement for the opportunities ahead. Matthew Brown, our Non-Executive Director, shares his reflections on a transformative 2024 and our ambitions for the coming year.

Reflecting on 2024: Laying Strong Foundations

Last year marked a period of significant milestones for AJC. The opening of our first office at the University of Essex at the end of 2023 was just the beginning. In 2024, we unveiled a refreshed brand and corporate image, capturing the values and culture that define us. This wasn’t just a new look – it was a reimagining of how we connect with and serve our clients. Alongside this, we launched a new website to bring our vision to life, ensuring our mission to provide guidance, protection, and peace of mind shines through.

Investing in Infrastructure

Our dedication to excellence drove major infrastructure upgrades throughout 2024. We strengthened our technology to ensure robust, industry-compliant systems capable of supporting future growth. Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus Certification without the need for remediation was a proud moment. Additionally, we enhanced our financial processes by adopting state-of-the-art tools to simplify invoicing and payments. Updated contractual templates have also improved clarity and protection for both AJC and our clients.

Building Stronger Client Relationships

At AJC, our clients are at the heart of everything we do. Renewing and extending our partnership with Bottomline Technologies for another five years was a highlight, allowing us to continue delivering SWIFT Customer Security Programme assessments. We are deeply grateful to all our clients for their continued trust, particularly those who return year after year to expand their engagement with us. Our enduring partnerships with GLAS and many UK Building Societies reflect the strength of these relationships.

Leading in Resilience and Industry Expertise

Remaining at the forefront of industry developments is crucial to delivering the best outcomes for our clients. In 2024, Adrian represented AJC at key conferences and on industry bodies, emphasising corporate resilience. We guided clients through pivotal regulatory changes, including the implementation of the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) and the shift from VISA GARS to VARS, where AJC will be the first organisation outside VISA to complete a formal review in early 2025.

In addition, we addressed emerging risks, from third-party vulnerabilities to the ever-evolving challenges of fraud and AI. Our new partnership with We Fight Fraud reflects our commitment to a comprehensive approach to fraud prevention, offering enhanced value and a holistic approach to our clients.

Celebrating our Team 

The achievements of 2024 would not have been possible without our incredible staff, partners, and associates. A few standout moments include:

• Geoff Poulter, Alex Mullett, and Prashant Mehta successfully passed the challenging SWIFT Certified Assessor exam, maintaining our listing on the SWIFT Certified Assessor Directory.
• Krysta Collin’s promotion to General Manager, a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication.
• Matt Neall, one of our founding associates, joining Adrian as a shareholder and becoming a member of our operating board.

Looking Ahead: Collaboration and Growth in 2025

With strong foundations in place, we are ready to embrace 2025 with enthusiasm and a commitment to collaboration. We are excited to support our clients, work together, and achieve new successes in the year ahead.

Happy New Year to all our clients, staff, and partners. We look forward to building on our collective achievements and working with you in 2025.