AFC soapbox: building an asset finance industry where young talent wants to stay

At this year’s AFC UK Autumn Conference, one of the most anticipated sessions takes to the stage in the form of a Soapbox – a fast-paced, thought-provoking spotlight on the future of the asset finance industry’s workforce.

Titled “Don’t just build an asset finance industry that young talent wants to join – build one where it wants to stay!”, this session brings together voices from the Leasing Foundation’s NextGeneration Network, who are on a mission to challenge the sector to move beyond recruitment and tackle the real issue: retention.

While progress has been made in attracting a more diverse pipeline of early-career professionals into asset finance, the harder question remains: what keeps them here?

The panel – featuring Alex McWilliams (Moderator, Communications Manager, Simply Asset Finance), Ana-Maria Broscatan (Commissions Manager, Close Brothers Asset Finance), Charlotte Downing (Head of Operations, Triple Point Investment Management), and Jamie Bridson (Director, Aston Commercial Finance) – promises a dynamic and honest discussion.

What to expect

The session will combine story-led insights with research-backed provocations, offering delegates a clear call to action for building workplaces that not only attract, but also retain, the next generation of asset finance professionals.

Attendees will:

• Understand the real barriers to retention – including the perception that other financial services sectors offer higher pay, asset finance’s lingering “cottage industry” image, and challenges around managing hybrid and return-to-office models for junior employees.
• Hear practical solutions through three key lenses: workplace value, training and development, and the role of next-generation business networks in building belonging and community.
• Commit to action by taking tangible steps, starting with inviting emerging talent within their organisations to join the Leasing Foundation NextGeneration Network.

As the industry faces growing competition for skilled professionals, this Soapbox session serves as both a mirror and a roadmap, reflecting the current reality while showing how leaders can create an environment where ambition, inclusion, and purpose thrive.

Whether you’re a senior leader, HR professional, or a member of the next generation yourself, this is one session you won’t want to miss.

Date: November 25, 2025
Venue: County Hall, London
Find out more: https://afcconferenceuk.com/Nov25/en/page/asset-finance-connect-homepage
Register now: https://afcconferenceuk.com/Nov25/en/page/book-now