Ian Isaac honoured with AFC Lifetime Achievement Award

Ian Isaac, who recently announced he is retiring as Managing Director of Lombard, has been awarded the prestigious Asset Finance Connect (AFC) Lifetime Achievement Award at the AFC Summer Awards 2024. This honour recognises Isaac’s exceptional contributions to the asset finance industry over the past 35 years, his unwavering commitment to Lombard, and his dedication to fostering relationships —customers, colleagues, and industry professionals alike — within the industry.

Winning the Alfa-sponsored AFC Lifetime Achievement Award is a significant accolade in the asset finance sector. It acknowledges Isaac’s enduring impact and leadership in the industry. Reflecting on this achievement, Isaac expressed, “I am both humbled and proud to receive the award. Having recently announced my retirement as MD of Lombard, it means so much to me to receive this commendation from my peers in the industry that has been a part of my life for the past 35 years.”

Isaac also emphasized the importance of this recognition for Lombard, highlighting its role in supporting the UK economy. “I am delighted because I believe it represents recognition of the part Lombard plays in a thriving and critical industry that underpins economic growth for the UK economy.”

Contributions to Lombard and the industry

Isaac’s journey with Lombard began in 1987 as an Account Executive, and he quickly rose through the ranks due to his dedication and talent. Over the years, he held various leadership roles, significantly contributing to Lombard’s growth and success. Under his leadership as Managing Director, Lombard nearly doubled its balance sheet to £15 billion, achieved high customer satisfaction, and received numerous awards.

Isaac’s influence extends beyond Lombard. He has been a prominent voice in the asset finance industry, serving on the boards of the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA) and the Leasing Foundation. His efforts in promoting asset finance, supporting industry colleagues, and fostering the next generation of professionals have been widely recognised.

Commitment to people

Central to Ian’s career has been his focus on people—customers, colleagues, and industry professionals. He is known for his approachability, loyalty, and creating an environment where people feel valued. Ian’s dedication to colleague development is highlighted by his support for apprentices, graduates, and his leadership team, many of whom have worked with him for years.

Sharing valuable advice for newcomers to the asset finance industry, Isaac encourages them to be inspired by the industry’s breadth and to recognise the significant influence they can have on other businesses. “Don’t focus all your attention inside your own business but face out to the industry and broader business life and understand the potential difference you can make.”

Isaac believes the asset finance industry must be more vocal about its contributions and innovations to attract and retain talent. He emphasized the need to highlight the industry’s progress, its importance to the UK economy, and the continuous innovations aimed at improving customer service. “We need to be more structured about building capability across the industry and take on the challenge of driving greater diversity in our businesses.”

Leadership superpowers

Isaac’s leadership has been defined by living the brand, maintaining personal connections, and valuing his colleagues. He has been a steadfast advocate for asset finance, particularly during challenging times, such as the 2008 financial crisis.

The past year has presented economic uncertainties, but Isaac has led Lombard to continued growth, supporting customers through difficult conditions. He is particularly proud of Lombard’s swift response to the COVID-19 crisis, which helped many businesses survive.

Looking ahead, Isaac sees significant potential in AI and digital technology to enhance customer experience and develop new products. However, he stressed that technological advancements should complement and deepen personal relationships, enabling relationship managers to spend more time with their customers.

Reflecting on his career

As Isaac retires, he leaves behind a legacy of significant achievements and a positive impact on the asset finance industry. His tenure at Lombard and contributions to the broader industry will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

Summing up his 35-year career, Isaac noted how quickly time had flown by. Despite numerous changes, he highlighted that the core elements of the business—relationships and trust—remain unchanged. “Customers value service above everything else.”