STAR Asset Finance Group announces Jason Hurwitz as new CEO

Hurwitz joins the business with more than two decades of experience spanning asset finance, SME lending, banking and financial technology. He most recently served as Sales Director for Europe at NETSOL Technologies, where he was responsible for driving the company’s sales strategy and growth across the region.

Before joining NETSOL, Hurwitz spent almost six years at Aldermore Bank, leading strategy, growth and transformation across its SME lending division, with a particular focus on asset finance. Prior to that, he spent five years at Close Brothers Asset Finance, where he led sales transformation programmes, strategic relationship development and long-term growth initiatives. Earlier in his career, Hurwitz worked in investment banking at UBS and also founded and led his own business, providing him with experience from both lender and customer perspectives.

Commenting on his appointment, Hurwitz said: “I’ve known Steve and the STAR business for many years and always respected and admired its expertise, human touch and market reach. The business has achieved much already and should be very proud of what it has become – a testament to the people and teams who have earned industry-wide respect and credibility.

“That said, with the work Steve and the wider team have done to strengthen the business over recent years, I believe STAR’s best days are still ahead. I’m very excited to work with the STAR team, to help bring our best to achieve the Group’s full potential.”

Swift, who has spent much of his career with Kennet and STAR, said the time was right to hand over leadership after many years at the helm.

“After what has been pretty much the whole of my working life with Kennet and STAR, the time has come for me to step back as CEO and move towards retirement,” he said.

“The success of this business has always been about the people. Our teams have not just been pivotal to STAR’s success, they have been the whole reason for it. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together.”

STAR Asset Finance said the leadership transition comes as the business looks to build on the operational and governance improvements made over the past two years.

Sam Geneen, Chairman of STAR Asset Finance Limited, said: “I’m proud of how well the STAR Group has performed over the past years. Covid and the years since have been a test of resilience which has demonstrated the depth of strength and expertise across the Group. Over the past 24 months, we have strengthened risk and compliance and have come through with strong proven foundations that leaves us well placed to scale up.

“I want to personally thank Steve for his many years of hard work, dedication and expertise. He will be missed. It’s the right moment for Steve to change gear and he steps back with our full blessing and gratitude for years of service. As we look forward, I and STAR Capital see an exciting period ahead, where, with new leadership from Jason, we can drive the business forward to new heights.”