At First Business Finance, we often talk about funding solutions, lender relationships and helping businesses achieve their ambitions. At the heart of everything we do is the key to unlock the right solution: our people.
We are passionate about getting to the core of our clients needs – this can only be done through a trusted adviser who understands their goals, takes the time to listen and helps them find the right funding solution for their unique needs – critical to source the right funding solution.
Today we’re putting the spotlight on the Founder and Managing Director of First Business Finance, David Jordan, whose journey perfectly reflects the determination, resilience and relationship-led approach that continue to define the business today.
From Football Pitches to Finance
Born and raised in Kent, David’s first ambition wasn’t business – it was football.
Having attended local schools, David achieved his childhood dream of becoming a professional footballer with Gillingham Football Club. But after signing professionally at 18, he realised his future lay elsewhere. He joined a rock band and then found a role in sales that attracted him.
In 1996, David entered the asset finance sector and quickly discovered a passion for helping businesses access the funding they need to grow.
Building a Business During Uncertain Times
In 2008, as much of the financial world was facing unprecedented uncertainty, David took the leap and launched First Business Finance.
His motivation was simple:
“I loved the industry, I was ambitious, and I wanted to build something of my own.”
Nearly two decades later, that decision has grown into a successful and respected finance brokerage that continues to support businesses across the UK.
Vision and Values
David’s vision has remained remarkably consistent over the years.
“I wanted to build a cutting edge business with a team I could be proud of – and I am.”
Today, as part of the wider SRT & Partners group, that vision continues to evolve through growth, diversification and an unwavering commitment to looking after clients.
For David, success isn’t measured solely by lending volumes or business growth. It’s about sustainable progress, profitability, a strong culture and seeing the people around him succeed.
Leadership Through Relationships
Ask David what has contributed most to the success of First Business Finance and the answer isn’t complicated.
He believes trust and reliability are the foundations of any successful business relationship, whether with clients, lenders or colleagues. It’s an approach that has helped build long-term partnerships and earned the confidence of businesses across a wide range of sectors.
His colleagues would describe him as positive, active and determined – qualities that have helped shape both his leadership style and the culture of the business.
Life Beyond Finance
Away from the office, David remains as competitive and active as ever.
A keen tennis and padel player, he enjoys most racket sports and still spends as much time outdoors as possible. While running has gradually given way to walking, staying active remains an important part of his routine.
One of his proudest personal achievements was completing the Everest Base Camp trek – an experience that reinforced the importance of resilience, discipline and preparation. The lessons learned on the mountain continue to influence his approach to both business and life.
Looking Ahead
As First Business Finance continues to grow, David remains focused on the principles that have been there since day one: personal service, strong relationships and helping businesses achieve their ambitions.
Because while funding products, lenders and markets may change, one thing remains constant:
People buy from people.
And it’s that belief that continues to shape the way First Business Finance supports its clients every day.