The National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (NACFB) has named Simon Featherstone as its new chair for a two-year term.

Featherstone has more than 30 years of experience in commercial banking, SME lending sector and broker networks.

His previous positions include senior roles at Barclays and Lloyds TSB Commercial Finance before serving as Bibby Financial Services’ global chief executive.

In recent years, he served in non-executive and advisory roles at specialist lenders such as Funding Xchange and Oxbury Bank.

As chair, Featherstone will collaborate with the board of NACFB and leadership team to maintain the Association’s established structures, strengthen its advocacy activities, and ensure support for brokers and their business clients.

Featherstone said: “The NACFB has a very strong board and a solid platform on which to build. I look forward to working collaboratively to take the association to the next level – ensuring it continues to support brokers, champion small businesses and remain fit for the future.”

He will succeed Adrian Coles, who was interim chair during transition period for the NACFB.

In October 2024, Jim Higginbotham has been appointed as chief executive as the association turned its efforts towards operational stability and planning.

Higginbotham added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Simon Featherstone as our new chair. Simon’s wealth of experience and reputation in the finance industry speak for themselves.

“Attracting someone of Simon’s calibre is a great endorsement of the vital role we play in the commercial finance intermediary market and reinforces our position as the preeminent intermediary focussed trade body shaping the industry’s future.”

In August 2025, Josh Levy was named as non-executive patron director by NACFB.