Shanika Amarasekara appointed FLA director normal

The Finance & Leasing Affiliation (FLA) has appointed Shanika Amarasekara MBE as its new director normal, succeeding Stephen Haddrill, who retires on the finish of July.

Amarasekara is an skilled in financial growth, innovation, and public coverage within the monetary companies sector.

She most not too long ago served as chief impression officer on the British Enterprise Financial institution, the place she was chargeable for coverage, technique, economics, sustainability, and public affairs.

Beforehand, as normal counsel, she performed a pivotal function in shaping and executing nationwide finance schemes in the course of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Her earlier profession spans influential positions on the Worldwide Islamic Liquidity Administration Company, the place she labored on cross-border Islamic finance constructions, in addition to authorized and advisory roles on the Royal Financial institution of Scotland and Allen & Overy.

Her experience extends to fintech regulation, inexperienced finance, and monetary inclusion, each within the UK and internationally.

John Phillipou, chair of the FLA, welcoming her appointment, mentioned: “The Board is immensely happy to have appointed Shanika to this key function.

“Stephen Haddrill, the outgoing DG, has finished a terrific job modernising the FLA, and Shanika’s breadth of expertise, vary of contacts and astute business insights will assist form the following part of the Affiliation’s growth.”

Amarasekara added: “It’s an honour to be becoming a member of the FLA at such a pivotal time. The finance and leasing sectors have a robust function to play in driving sustainable progress, supporting innovation, and delivering truthful outcomes for patrons.

“The affiliation already has a robust basis and I’m trying ahead to working with the board, members and stakeholders to construct even higher impression, visibility and worth within the years forward.”