NACFB appoints Simon Featherstone as chair for two years

Core Viewpoint - The National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (NACFB) has appointed Simon Featherstone as its new chair for a two-year term, emphasizing the importance of his extensive experience in the commercial banking and SME lending sectors [1][2]. Group 1: Leadership and Experience - Simon Featherstone brings over 30 years of experience in commercial banking and has held senior roles at Barclays and Lloyds TSB Commercial Finance, as well as serving as the global chief executive of Bibby Financial Services [1][2]. - In recent years, Featherstone has also been involved in non-executive and advisory roles at specialist lenders such as Funding Xchange and Oxbury Bank [2]. Group 2: Goals and Objectives - As chair, Featherstone aims to collaborate with the NACFB board and leadership team to maintain established structures, strengthen advocacy activities, and support brokers and their business clients [2][3]. - Featherstone expressed his commitment to building on the strong foundation of the NACFB and ensuring continued support for brokers and small businesses [3]. Group 3: Transition and Future Plans - Featherstone succeeds Adrian Coles, who served as interim chair during the transition period for the NACFB [3]. - Jim Higginbotham has been appointed as chief executive in October 2024, focusing on operational stability and planning for the association [4]. - The appointment of Featherstone is seen as a significant endorsement of the NACFB's role in the commercial finance intermediary market [5].