Leasing Professionals

The Leasing Foundation: A 2024 review and a vision for 2025

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As 2024 comes to an end and we usher in a new year, the Leasing Foundation, under the leadership of Chair Ylva Oertengren, reflects on a year marked by growth, collaboration, and meaningful impact in the asset finance industry. From charity partnerships to the advancement of inclusion, innovation and sustainability, the Foundation has proven itself a dynamic force for positive change and collaboration.

In an interview with Ylva Oertengren, we explore the achievements of the past year and the ambitions for 2025.

Charity and fundraising: A year of giving back

2024 milestones with Beyond. The Leasing Foundation’s partnership with youth mental health charity Beyond in 2024 exemplifies the impact of its charitable efforts. Raising an impressive £27,610, the Foundation helped fund life-changing mental health support for young people. Beyond, in turn, gave back by offering services tailored to the individuals and families of the asset finance industry, addressing mental health challenges among children and young people.

Ylva highlighted the importance of fostering lasting relationships between the industry and its charitable partners. “Charity work within the Leasing Foundation isn’t just about raising funds; it’s about building connections that create long-term value for both parties,” she shared.

Looking ahead to 2025. While the new charity partner for 2025 remains under wraps until the Leasing Foundation’s senior leaders’ drinks event on February 5th, Ylva hinted at the selection of another smaller organisation closely aligned with the Foundation’s values. “We aim for two-way partnerships that amplify impact for both sides,” she noted.

Fundraising plans for 2025 include events such as the Summer Party at the Royal Exchange in June, which promises to celebrate individual achievements while raising funds for the Foundation’s chosen charity.

Initiatives and programmes: Driving progress and innovation

2024 achievements. In 2024, the Foundation expanded its EDI, innovation, and sustainability initiatives.The Connect Roulette networking series and International Women’s Day spotlight campaign were particularly well-received, fostering community and inclusivity within the asset finance industry.

In the sustainability stream, webinars featuring prominent speakers like Sally Uren OBE explored actionable strategies for businesses to embrace green practices. Meanwhile, the Next Generation stream continued its success with networking events, workshops, and the fourth edition of the 30 Under 30 Index.

What’s new for 2025. Building on the momentum, Ylva envisions 2025 as another year of organic growth, with room for new ideas and initiatives. “The Foundation is a platform for individuals to make a difference on topics they are passionate about,” she said.

Along with workshops and seminars within the individual initiatives, the Leasing Foundation plans to deepen engagement through collaboration with industry professionals, exemplified by the successful partnership with Asset Finance Connect. Initiatives like Connect Roulette and the International Women’s Day spotlight will continue, alongside a focus on innovation, equity, and sustainability.

Leadership and evolving the board

The appointment of Alex McWilliams and Lauren McQuilken to the Leasing Foundation board to lead the Next Generation stream marks an exciting chapter for the Foundation. Both bring fresh energy and individual perspectives, having risen through Foundation initiatives like the Industry Insights programme. “Their leadership highlights the very purpose of the Leasing Foundation—providing opportunities for growth and development,” Ylva explained.

The Leasing Foundation board’s strength lies in its diversity, encompassing professionals from varied backgrounds, workplace cultures, and stages of their careers. “We need different voices at the table to shape the agenda for next year and beyond,” Ylva emphasised.

Reflections and outlook

2024: A year of strength and delivery. Reflecting on 2024, Ylva sees a Leasing Foundation that is continuing to evolve and mature with a team that is getting stronger every year. She is particularly proud of the Foundation’s growth throughout 2024 in content, visibility, and structure. “This year marked another step forward. We’ve become a stronger organisation for individuals, driven by individuals,” she said.

2025: Challenges and opportunities. The asset finance industry faces significant challenges in the year ahead, from economic uncertainties to evolving societal expectations. Ylva sees the Foundation as a crucial forum for fostering collaboration and resilience during such times.

For those looking to get involved, the Leasing Foundation offers ample opportunities to connect, learn, and contribute. “What I enjoy most is when people reach out, wanting to be part of this community. Together, we can make a real difference,” Ylva remarked.

Looking forward

As we enter 2025, the Leasing Foundation remains dedicated to its mission of empowering the next generation, fostering inclusivity, driving innovation, and championing sustainability. With its community-driven approach and unwavering focus on core values, the Foundation is well-positioned to continue making an impact in the asset finance industry—and beyond.