The Finance & Leasing Association (FLA) has appointed Paul Smee as Group Chair of the FLA Lending Code, a long-standing framework designed to promote responsible lending practices across various consumer finance sectors.
Smee brings decades of experience in financial services, having served as Director General of the Council of Mortgage Lenders from 2011 until its integration into UK Finance in 2017.
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His previous leadership roles include Chief Executive of the UK Payments Council and the Association of Independent Financial Advisers. Since 2018, he has held a range of non-executive directorships, including with the Regulator of Social Housing, the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission, the Money Advice Trust and the Residential Landlords Association.
The FLA Lending Code has operated for more than 30 years and applies to a wide range of products, including consumer credit loans, second-charge mortgages, credit and store cards, personal loans, motor finance, and catalogue credit. It sets out standards covering fair treatment of customers, compliance with legal obligations, and voluntary commitments to good practice. The FLA monitors adherence to the Code and investigates any reported breaches.
Stephen Haddrill, Director General of the FLA, welcomed the appointment: “We’re very pleased to have Paul join us. His experience and insights, particularly across financial regulation, are outstanding and will be much valued by colleagues.”
Commenting on his new role, Smee said: “The FLA Code demonstrates the seriousness with which FLA members treat good customer service and outcomes. I am delighted to be associated with it and to assist in the next phase of its development.”
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