The Leasing Foundation has had an exceptional 12 months. This is all down to the numerous individuals in the separate working groups who voluntarily give their time because they want to future proof this industry and make it the best it can be – for both people entering the workforce and those that are already here.
We’re proud to have planned and executed a record number of events this year, re-focused on charitable activity and, as promised, launched a new Sustainability initiative.
Our return to charitable activity has been a huge success. We named Wings For Life as our 2023 charity and raised almost £50K for the organisation. The bulk of the amount came from our first-ever asset finance summer party at the Honourable Artillery Company in London where we even managed to get a Formula 1 car in the gates!
In November we officially kicked off our Sustainability initiative with a virtual event that aimed to help business and individuals enhance sustainability and accelerate environmental improvements in their businesses. Almost 80 people from over 45 different organisations registered to attend and feedback post event has been great. More events are being planned for 2024.
Our Innovation group held three sell-out events this year, culminating in a superb workshop in October, at one of the most sought-after innovation labs in the UK. This looked at the topic du jour – artificial intelligence and provided access to front line expertise, tools and techniques to help build businesses for the future.
The team continued its stellar work in D&I putting on debates and panel events on disability, LGBTQ+, mental health, inclusion and race & ethnicity. One of the most recent events was our mental health debate in Manchester, held in conjunction with Manchester Mind. The event certainly provided food for thought and was the perfect way to mark World Mental Health Day.
The Next Gen Network goes from strength to strength. We have just launched our second Industry Insights programme with 27 high-potential professionals in the industry. This is designed to help retain and develop young talent in the sector by enabling them to gain exposure to businesses outside of their own organisations as part of their professional development. We’ve also just named the rising stars that made it on to our third 30 under 30 Index.
It’s been a year of real traction and I look forward to seeing what we can achieve in 2024.
On behalf of The Leasing Foundation I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone involved and also those that have supported us throughout the past 12 months. Wishing you a happy, healthy and peaceful Christmas and a wonderful 2024. I look forward to seeing you next year!
Nathan Mollett
Chair, Leasing Foundation