Ian Isaac, Head of Lombard, elected chairman of the FLA’s Asset Finance Division

Commenting on the role, Isaac said: “I’m honoured to be appointed as the chairman of the FLA’s Asset Finance Division. The leasing sector has played a fundamental role in supporting the UK’s economic growth, providing nearly £30 billion of funding to businesses in 2015 according to FLA figures, more than half of which was loaned to SMEs.

“It is becoming more widely appreciated that asset finance has an important role to play in funding the new equipment and technology which drives business growth, and also UK competitiveness in the global marketplace.

“However when it comes to narrowing the funding gap, especially for young and growing businesses, we know there is need for greater education of the benefits offered by asset finance. In my new role as chairman of the FLA’s Asset Finance Division, I intend to focus on promoting what we can offer businesses as a whole, and demonstrating how we can help firms who want to succeed, whether at home or in the wider global marketplace.”

Simon Goldie, head of asset finance at the FLA commented: “I’m delighted that Ian will be the new chairman of the FLA’s Asset Finance Division. He brings with him a wealth of experience in the industry and I look forward to working closely with him in the months and years ahead.”