Non-Executive Director

Non-Executive Director Opportunity at Arkle Finance Limited

Overview

This is an exceptional opportunity to join the Board of Arkle Finance Limited as a Non-Executive Director. As a subsidiary of the well-established Weatherbys Bank, Arkle Finance presents a compelling proposition for an experienced financial services professional seeking to contribute to the strategic growth of a dynamic asset finance company.

About Arkle Finance Limited

Arkle Finance Limited operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Weatherbys Bank, itself part of the prestigious Weatherbys Group with over 250 years of heritage. Established in 1997, AFL has evolved into a respected specialist in asset finance and leasing, currently supporting more than 10,000 customers across the United Kingdom.

The company\’s core mission centres on enabling businesses of all sizes and private individuals to access essential equipment and vehicles through tailored financial solutions. AFL\’s comprehensive portfolio encompasses corporate and small business asset finance, consumer finance, renewable energy installations, marine and aviation finance, and specialist funding for educational institutions.

With typical facility ranges from £15,000 to £500,000 over periods of 18-60 months, AFL maintains authorisation and regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority. The company operates from its headquarters in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, employing between 80 professionals dedicated to responsible lending practices.

Board Composition and Governance Framework

The Arkle Finance Board operates with a balanced composition including the Chairman, two other Non-Executive Directors, the Group Finance Director, Managing Director, and Chief Operating Officer. This structure ensures comprehensive oversight while maintaining the independence essential for effective governance.

The Board\’s primary objectives encompass promoting long-term, sustainable success while generating shareholder value, ensuring adequate resources to meet company objectives, establishing prudent risk management frameworks, facilitating stakeholder engagement, and maintaining workforce policies that are aligned with company values.

Role Responsibilities and Expectations

As a Non-Executive Director, you will be expected to provide constructive challenge, strategic guidance, and specialist advice while holding management accountable for performance against agreed objectives. Your responsibilities will include upholding the highest standards of integrity, supporting executive directors in instilling appropriate values and culture, considering stakeholder views, and ensuring sufficient time commitment to discharge duties effectively.

The role requires active participation in board deliberations, contributing to strategic planning initiatives, and providing oversight of risk management systems. You will be expected to bring independent judgment to board discussions while supporting the executive team in delivering on the company\’s strategic objectives.

Required Experience and Competencies

The ideal candidate will possess previous board-level experience, preferably as a Non-Executive Director, with a proven track record of chairing committees. Essential requirements include substantial experience in the financial services sector, demonstrating strong influencing capabilities, maintaining calm and level-headed decision-making under pressure, and exhibiting excellent communication skills.

Financial services firms actively seek Non-Executive Directors who combine industry-specific knowledge with broader business acumen. Key competencies include strategic thinking, strong ethical standards, and the ability to challenge and support executive teams constructively. Given the regulatory environment, deep understanding of financial services compliance and risk management frameworks is crucial.

Professional Development and Career Progression

This appointment offers significant professional development opportunities within a respected financial services group. The role provides exposure to diverse aspects of asset finance, from traditional equipment lending to emerging sectors such as renewable energy and educational institution finance.

The position offers the chance to contribute to strategic decision-making in a growing sector, with asset finance new business in business equipment and plant machinery showing growth of 34% and 8% respectively in recent periods. This environment presents opportunities to influence the direction of a company positioned at the intersection of traditional banking expertise and innovative financing solutions.

Strategic Opportunities and Challenges

The asset finance sector continues to evolve, driven by technological innovation, sustainability imperatives, and changing business models. This technological transformation presents both opportunities for enhanced operational efficiency and challenges requiring careful strategic navigation.

Sustainability remains a key focus, with increasing demand for financing green technologies and renewable energy installations. AFL\’s existing expertise in renewable energy finance positions the company well to capitalise on this growing market segment.

Compensation and Time Commitment

While specific compensation details are not provided in the role description, Non-Executive Director roles in financial services typically offer competitive remuneration reflecting the expertise and time commitment required. The position demands sufficient time availability to discharge responsibilities effectively, including preparation for and attendance at board meetings and strategic planning sessions.

Next Steps

This role represents an outstanding opportunity to join a well-established financial services organisation with strong growth prospects and a clear strategic vision. The combination of Weatherbys Group\’s heritage, AFL\’s market position, and the dynamic nature of the asset finance sector creates an compelling proposition for an experienced financial services professional.

For candidates with the requisite experience and commitment to excellence in corporate governance, this appointment offers the chance to contribute meaningfully to the continued success of a respected financial services provider while advancing their own professional development in the Non-Executive Director arena.

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