NACFB appoints two non-executive directors to board

The National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (NACFB) has strengthened its board with two new non-executive directors, Angela Norman and William Grove.

Norman has been appointed as the patron lender director while Grove will act as the finance director, enhancing its board's diversity and governance.

As a managing director at YBS Commercial Mortgages, Norman brings more than 25 years of commercial finance expertise that includes former senior leadership roles at Recognise Bank, RBS, and Lloyds Banking Group.

Norman said: “My career has been shaped by a commitment to supporting the borrowing needs of UK businesses, and as part of my role as a non-executive director, I am committed to ensuring that industry developments – especially those around technology – translate into improved customer and broker experiences, which also put the customer at the heart of every decision made.”

Meanwhile, Grove previously held board-level roles at In Partnership, Mortgages for Business, and Towergate Insurance.

Grove added: “I am honoured to join the NACFB board at such a pivotal time. Strong governance and financial discipline are essential to the Association’s ability to champion the broker-led funding community. I look forward to supporting the NACFB’s mission by helping ensure it remains agile, transparent, and well-positioned to serve its members and lender patrons.”

NACFB CEO Jim Higginbotham said: “When appointing new non-executive directors, we seek individuals who can provide expert insight, challenge constructively, and champion our strategic vision.

“Angela and William bring to the table a depth of experience and sector understanding that will help shape the future direction of the NACFB.”

These appointments align with the NACFB’s goal of refreshing its governance and enhancing board diversity.

Last year, Evette Orams and Tom Perkins joined the association as member directors, alongside Norman Chambers’ shift from managing director of the NACFB to a non-executive board role.

The NACFB’s board has outlined a plan to reach a minimum of 40% female representation in the coming years.

In 2024, its members facilitated nearly 70% of the UK's £38bn ($49.19bn) broker-led SME lending, highlighting brokers' critical role in SME finance access.

The association's annual impact report, published in March, emphasises brokers' significance, with commercial lenders relying on them for an average of 67% of SME finance transactions.

The report also noted a market shift from traditional financial hubs like London to regions such as the West Midlands and the South West.