Commercial Director (CCO) - Vehicle Finance

We have been selected as the exclusive partner to an ambitious new entrant in the UK motor finance / vehicle finance market - this new lender is engineered for growth, technology-led efficiency, and customer transparency. Backed by seasoned automotive and financial services professionals, the business is now entering its regulatory readiness and pre-launch phase, with full authorisation and live operations targeted in the months ahead. This is a rare opportunity to join at inception and take a Board-level leadership role in defining the risk and governance backbone of a modern, purpose-driven motor finance business. Business verticals will include a presence in Retail (Online Car Finance and Dealerships), Business Fleet and Lease Finance.

Role Purpose

The Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) will be responsible for establishing, leading, and overseeing the Sales function across the business. This role will drive the company's commercial growth by developing and executing sales and business development strategies that align with corporate objectives. The CCO will embed best practice in sales leadership across all business areas, ensuring that performance, customer experience, and profitability objectives are met while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive commercial strategy to drive revenue growth, market share, and profitability.

• Lead and manage the Sales function, ensuring high performance and alignment with company goals.

• Design and execute sales plans, incentive structures, and performance metrics to support business objectives.

• Identify and develop new business opportunities and strategic partnerships within the motor finance industry.

• Oversee the development of customer acquisition and retention strategies to improve overall satisfaction and lifetime value.

• Collaborate with marketing, risk, operations, and finance teams to ensure cohesive delivery of the company's propositions.

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key clients, intermediaries, and stakeholders.

• Ensure that sales practices and business development activities comply with regulatory requirements and internal policies.

• Promote a culture of excellence, customer focus, and continuous improvement within the commercial teams.

• Provide strategic insights and regular performance reporting to the CEO and Board on commercial performance and market developments.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum of 15 years' experience in a senior sales leadership role within the motor finance industry.

• Proven experience in establishing and leading commercial or sales functions within regulated financial institutions.

• Strong record of delivering sales growth and building successful distribution networks.

• Extensive experience managing key relationships with dealers, brokers, and strategic partners in the motor finance sector.

• Bachelor's degree in business, finance, or a related field; a master's degree or equivalent professional qualification is desirable.

Knowledge and Skills

• Comprehensive understanding of the UK motor finance market, products, and distribution channels.

• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to translate strategy into actionable business outcomes.

• Excellent leadership, negotiation, and relationship management skills.

• Proven ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams.

• Analytical mindset with a focus on data-driven decision-making and performance measurement.

• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with senior stakeholders and regulators.

Behavioural Competencies

• Leadership: Inspires and motivates teams to achieve commercial success.

• Integrity: Acts with honesty, fairness, and transparency at all times.

• Accountability: Takes ownership for delivering measurable results and meeting commitments.

• Collaboration: Builds strong cross-functional relationships to achieve shared goals.

• Resilience: Maintains focus and drive under pressure and in challenging markets.

• Customer Focus: Puts customers at the heart of decision-making and ensures sales practices deliver fair outcomes.