"The FCA will continue to uphold high standards of character and conduct for those working in financial services."
Ashkan Zahedian was the sole director of authorised consumer credit firm, Vast Cars Limited, and was approved by the FCA as a senior manager.
However, in May 2020, Zahedian pleaded guilty to possessing a bladed article and unlawful and malicious wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. This conviction followed Zahedian attacking a security guard outside The Mixologist in Hove with a machete.
Another member of the security staff was also knocked unconscious during the altercation, according to a BBC report.
Zahedian was sentenced to three years in prison at Lewes Crown Court and the FCA has now decided to remove his approval to perform the senior management function at Vast Cars Limited as well as impose a prohibition order. This will prevent Zahedian from working in financial services in the future.
Commenting on the decision, Mark Steward, FCA executive director of enforcement and market oversight, has said:
"Those authorised to provide financial services are required to meet and maintain high standards of character, fitness, and properness.
"These were serious, violent criminal offences reflecting on Mr Zahedian’s character and justifying the finding that he is not a person to be working in financial services."
