Redefining the future of the asset finance industry

The 2025 edition of the Asset Finance Young Professionals Report shines a spotlight on the next generation shaping one of the financial sector’s most forward-looking industries. As asset finance continues to evolve through innovation, technology, and shifting workforce expectations, young professionals are not just adapting to change – they’re leading it.

From redefining leadership and career pathways to embracing digital transformation, this year’s Report captures the ambition, resilience, and creativity driving asset finance forward. It celebrates achievement, explores emerging challenges, and sets out a roadmap for how the industry can continue to attract and empower exceptional talent.

Key themes from the 2025 Report

Celebrating the Leasing Foundation’s 30 Under 30 Class of 2025: This year’s Report showcases the outstanding individuals recognised in the Leasing Foundation’s 30 Under 30 Class of 2025, alongside reflections from the 2024 cohort and insights from senior leaders on supporting the next wave of professionals.

The mindsets that drive success: In a feature sponsored by Acquis, Jo Thorn, Head of Sales UK, explores the qualities that define success in asset finance today — from resilience and adaptability to a commitment to continuous learning and collaboration.

The power of networks and community: A year into their leadership roles, Alex McWilliams and Lauren McQuilken, Co-Leads of the Leasing Foundation’s Next Generation Network, share how peer support and community are shaping career journeys and inspiring future leaders.

Understanding the “restless generation”: Riaan van Wyk of Barnett Waddingham examines shifting career expectations, the rise of job mobility, and the importance of well-being and flexibility in engaging younger professionals.

Learning for the long term: Yusuf Laher from the Finance Education Centre discusses why specialist training and professional development remain critical to the sector’s long-term success.

Celebrating excellence across generations
The Report features reflections from Rising Star award winner Kevin Calkiewicz and Lifetime Achievement recipient Steve Bolton, who share guidance and perspective for future industry leaders.

Looking ahead: In the 2025 Report, New Leaf Search explores how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping financial services — and how the next generation is developing the skills to thrive in this fast-changing environment.

What emerges is a portrait of an industry in transition – one defined by curiosity, adaptability, and purpose. The young professionals featured here are not only the future of asset finance; they’re redefining what it means to lead within it.

Why you should read this report

Whether you’re an established leader or an emerging professional, the Asset Finance Young Professionals Report 2025 offers valuable insights into the people and ideas shaping the sector’s future. It’s both a celebration of achievement and a call to action – to continue creating environments where young professionals can learn, lead, and flourish.

Download your copy of the Asset Finance Young Professionals Report 2025 by completing the form on the right.