Francis Sumner spent most of his working life as a City solicitor, including 25 years as a partner in Norton Rose, a leading City and international law firm where he specialised in corporate finance. He is currently the Deputy Chairman of Crown Agents, a leading worldwide provider of services in the field of aid and development, the Senior Independent Director of The Bankers Investment Trust PLC and Vice-Chairman of the Assessment and Qualifications Alliance (AQA).

Francis is Vice-Chairman of City & Guilds and chairs the International Committee. He was awarded an Honorary Fellowship in 2003