• Pictured above is new Group Finance Director Laura Woodward with COO Mike Thompson
CONGRATULATIONS to Laura Woodward who has been appointed Group Finance Director at Leasing Options.
Laura, from Blackburn, Lancashire, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. As Group Finance Director, Laura will oversee the finance department and play a pivotal role in leading strategic financial planning for the Manchester-based leasing broker.
Initially she will be working with the CFO and team on system improvements and future proofing. Laura’s involvement also includes supporting the staff, HR compliance and adding support to the compliance function to further strengthen Leasing Options’ operational framework.
Laura – who joins from solicitor firm Scott Rees & Co where she was Finance Director, will see her working closely with the senior leadership team, providing additional experience to focus on broader business initiatives.
Commenting on her decision to join Leasing Options, Laura said:
“Leasing Options has a fantastic reputation for innovation and delivering exceptional customer value, which I have admired for many years. The opportunity to join such a forward-thinking and dynamic company at a time of significant growth was incredibly appealing. I’m excited to contribute to its continued success and to work alongside such a talented team to help shape the next phase of its journey.”
Laura’s immediate plans include a comprehensive review of the finance department to identify opportunities for increased efficiency. Karin Butschok, Chief Finance Officer said: “Laura’s appointment aligns with our aims to implement new policies and procedures where necessary, ensuring robust financial practices that will support the company’s continued growth. I look forward to adding her experience and knowledge to the finance function.”
Additionally, Laura is dedicated to fostering a strategic approach to finance that aligns with the long-term vision of Leasing Options.
Mike Thompson, Chief Operating Officer at Leasing Options, commented:
“We are thrilled to welcome Laura to the team. Her exceptional track record and deep understanding of financial operations make her the ideal choice to lead our finance department. Her leadership will be instrumental as we continue to scale the business and pursue our ambitious goals.”
Chairman and CEO Nigel Brain added: “Laura brings a wealth of knowledge to the job. With an initial career in professional practice, where she qualified as a Chartered Accountant, Laura rose to the position of Audit Manager. For the past 16 years, she has worked in industry as Finance Director for businesses across different market sectors, giving her a significant breadth of experience across a range of business disciplines. This experience makes her appointment a key moment for Leasing Options as we continue to build on our 35 years of success. Laura’s leadership and strategic insight will be invaluable in driving our business forward.”
Leasing Options said the appointment reflected the broker’s ongoing commitment to investing in top-tier talent to drive its strategic vision forward.
Ralph Morton is the leading journalist in the leasing broker sector and editor of Broker News, the website which provides information and news for BVRLA-registered leasing brokers. He also writes extensively on the fleet and leasing market in both the UK and Europe.
