In the aftermath of crisis regulatory theory and practice has often moved progressively through solutions based on the practical and normative advantages of ‘governance,’ ‘responsibility,’ ‘integrity,’ and ‘accountability.’ At heart, therefore, effective accountability is a design question at corporate, professional and regulatory levels. Accountability can only be guaranteed if disputes over interpretation can be resolved in a manner that is proportionate, targeted, and, ultimately, conducive to the building of warranted trust in the operation of the financial services sector. The program of research explores the concept of accountability at both theoretical and practical levels. It assesses the impact of the Global Financial Crisis on both corporate governance and regulatory design.