Josh Levy reflects on CEO of the Year recognition at Finance Connect Summer Awards 2026

The award recognises an outstanding chief executive who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision and business performance while making a significant contribution to the wider asset and business finance industry.

Levy has led one of the UK’s fastest-growing specialist asset-based lenders since becoming Chief Executive of Ultimate Finance in 2019, overseeing a sustained period of growth that includes the company’s recent highest-ever half-year originations in H1 2026. After beginning his career in investment banking at Investec before moving into asset-based lending, he has earned a reputation across the industry for building high-performing, people-first teams. Earlier this year, he also joined the board of the National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (NACFB).

His industry standing was reflected in the judging process for this year’s Finance Connect Summer Awards. When judges were asked to identify the CEO they most wanted to see receive the award, Levy’s name appeared on virtually every nomination sheet.

For Levy, however, the recognition is as much about the people around him as it is about his own leadership.

“I’m honoured to receive this award and receiving recognition from peers within the industry is particularly meaningful,” he said. “While it’s presented to me personally, I see it as recognition of the fantastic team around me, the culture we have built, and what we’ve achieved together over the past year.

“Great businesses are built by great people, and I’m fortunate to work alongside so many talented colleagues who are passionate about supporting our customers and each other. This award reflects their contribution considerably more than it does my own.”

Reflecting on the past 12 months, Levy said his proudest achievement has been seeing Ultimate Finance continue to evolve while maintaining its culture during a period of rapid growth.

“I’m most proud of the way we’ve continued to evolve and strengthen the business during a period of high growth, and specifically, seeing the development of so many of our team in stepping up to this challenge,” he said. “In such a competitive market, we’ve remained focused on sustainable growth, investing in our capabilities and ensuring we continue to deliver a great experience for brokers and customers.

“Seeing our teams embrace change, collaborate across the business and deliver strong outcomes is incredibly rewarding. Maintaining the balance of growth, control and culture is never easy but it is fundamental to long-term performance.”

“The biggest daily challenge is balancing short-term market pressures with long-term strategic priorities,” he said. “Being part of the Tavistock Group is truly unique and allows for that long-term vision to be undiluted.

“Looking back over my time as CEO, we have faced significant challenges head on, particularly during COVID and periods of economic volatility that have followed. I believe that transparency and communication are more important than ever during periods of uncertainty, and each time we have emerged from challenges in a stronger place whilst maintaining clarity of strategy.”

He added that remaining true to the company’s core principles has been critical.

“The key is resisting short-term pressure to deviate from core principles, particularly around risk and financial discipline, while still ensuring the business remains competitive and responsive. Understanding and appreciating that our purpose is to support the ambitions of business owners of all shapes and sizes is always a powerful motivator in this.”

Looking ahead, Levy is optimistic about the opportunities for both Ultimate Finance and the specialist finance sector.

“I’m very optimistic about the future,” he said. “Businesses increasingly want funding partners that can combine specialist expertise with speed, flexibility and excellent customer service.

“For Ultimate Finance, that creates exciting opportunities to continue supporting SMEs with solutions that help them grow and succeed. More broadly, I believe that specialist lenders have a critical role to play in supporting the UK economy, particularly where businesses need funding solutions that sit outside the traditional high-street banking model.”

While technology will continue to shape the sector, Levy believes relationships will remain the defining factor.

“Technology and data will continue to enhance customer experiences and improve decision-making, but I think the real differentiator will remain the ability to combine those capabilities with strong relationships built on mutual trust and experience.”

Reflecting on the Finance Connect Summer Awards evening, Levy praised the event for bringing the industry together.

“It was an excellent event and a great opportunity to celebrate the achievements of individuals and businesses across the industry, and to reflect on the strength and diversity of our sector,” he said.

“Events like these provide a valuable reminder of the talent, innovation and commitment that exists throughout the finance community. It was a pleasure to spend time with industry colleagues, reconnect with familiar faces and meet new people who are helping drive the sector forward.”

“Congratulations to Josh Levy, CEO of Ultimate Finance, on being named CEO of the Year at the Finance Connect Awards,” she said. “This well-deserved recognition reflects his strong leadership, strategic vision and contribution to the UK finance industry. Under Josh’s leadership, Ultimate Finance has continued to champion innovation, support SMEs and deliver sustainable growth while maintaining a customer-first approach. NETSOL was proud to sponsor these awards and celebrate the leaders and organisations driving excellence and shaping the future of financial services. Congratulations, Josh, on this outstanding achievement.”