FLA appoints Ian McLaughlin to its Board

The Finance & Leasing Association (FLA) has appointed Ian McLaughlin, Group Chief Executive Officer of Vanquis, to its Board, bringing more than 30 years of financial services experience to the industry body.

McLaughlin has held senior leadership positions across consumer finance, motor finance, mortgages, savings, wealth management and insurance.

He joined Vanquis as Group CEO in 2023, having previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Ireland UK. His career also includes senior roles at Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds Banking Group.

In addition, McLaughlin has served on the UK Finance Board and held several non-executive directorships.

The appointment strengthens the FLA Board’s experience across banking and consumer finance as the association continues to represent the interests of lenders and leasing providers supporting consumers and businesses throughout the UK.

Shanika Amarasekara MBE, Chief Executive Officer of the FLA, welcomed the appointment.

“We are delighted to welcome Ian to the FLA Board. He brings extensive experience from across banking and consumer finance, together with a deep understanding of the role finance plays in supporting households, businesses and economic growth.

“FLA members provide the finance that enables consumers to make major purchases and businesses to invest, grow and create jobs. Ian’s expertise and insight will be invaluable as we continue to champion a strong and responsible finance sector and work with policymakers and regulators to ensure our industry can support growth across the UK economy.”

McLaughlin said he was looking forward to contributing to the association’s work at a time when access to finance remains central to the UK’s economic ambitions.

“I am delighted to be joining the FLA Board at a time when access to finance has never been more important to the UK’s economic ambitions. Every day, finance providers help consumers make essential purchases and enable businesses to invest, innovate and grow.

“The FLA has a critical role in representing the industry’s contribution to the real economy, and I look forward to working with colleagues across the sector to support members and help shape the future of finance in the UK.”

The FLA represents the asset, consumer and motor finance sectors, working with government, regulators and industry stakeholders on issues affecting the provision of finance across the UK economy.