Our Team
At First Business Finance, we believe success is built on partnership, expertise, and innovation. Our team is driven by a shared commitment to putting clients first and delivering outstanding commercial finance solutions to businesses across the UK. We value collaboration, integrity, and forward thinking - empowering our people to make a real difference for the businesses we support. Whether you’re an experienced finance professional or looking to grow your career in a dynamic, client-focused environment, we offer the opportunity to thrive, learn, and help shape the future of business finance.
Contact us on:
01634 386869
David Jordan
Managing Director
David has worked in asset finance for over 25 years building a wealth of business, sales and management experience. David founded First Business Group in 2008 and has overseen the development and growth of First Business Finance. Highly experienced, David is extremely knowledgeable about financial products, the impacts of government policy and supporting clients to manage cash flow, business growth and expansion.
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Tom Castle
Board Director
As Board Director of First Business Finance, Thomas leads management to create value for clients by drawing on the unique expertise and market access available across SRT & Partner’s wider product portfolio. Building on his significant experience in financial services and insurance, Thomas excels at crafting innovative, high-value, tailored solutions that empower clients to thrive.
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Tom Shipston
Board Director
As Board Director of First Business Finance, Tom supports the management to deliver responsive, relationship-led service and bespoke solutions that always deliver lasting value to both commercial clients and strategic partners. With an extensive career building and leading successful businesses, Tom has never lost focus on the importance of long term client relationships, integrity and innovation.
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Steve O’Hare
Head of Compliance
As Chief Operating Officer of First Business Finance, Steve drives business excellence and efficiency across SRT & Partners. With over 30 years of experience in operational leadership, he ensures seamless processes, execution of the compliance function combined with high-quality service delivery.
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Martin Neall
Head of Finance
Martin is Chief Financial Officer of Readhunt responsible for both steering financial strategy and delivering stability. With over 30 years of experience in financial management within the finance sector, he brings a meticulous and forward-thinking approach to optimising performance across diverse industries.
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Martin Ball
Sales Director
Martin has worked in the asset finance broker market for over 25 years, establishing very successful vendor programmes and building a very loyal customer base transcending a wide variety of market sectors. With a vast knowledge of products and funders Martin is the driving force behind the sales team and has been instrumental in the growth of the company.
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Shannon Rodrigues
Trading Manager
Shannon has vast knowledge of management and business from 30 years working in banking and finance. Shannon is critical to the smooth operation of the company, combining sales and administration.
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Aston Hibbard
Senior Account Executive
Aston combines expert knowledge of all aspects of commercial finance with significant sector expertise in the garage equipment finance sector, plant/construction, machinery, vehicle and technology finance. A problem solver, Aston approaches all clients with an innovative mindset and attention to detail, ensuring they receive the right solution for their specific need.
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Kristian Hibbard
Account Executive
Kristian’s focus is on building lasting relationships with equipment suppliers and other vendors to ensure the best solution for both client and supplier.
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Carrie Hobday
Account Executive
Carrie is a passionate, people-focused finance professional with 24 years of experience in finance specialising in business loans. Carrie loves helping businesses find the right funding solutions to grow, expand, and succeed. Building long-term relationships with clients by being approachable, reliable, and always up for a challenge. Whether securing asset finance or navigating loan options, Carrie makes the process simple and clear.
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Alex Hamer
Broker Support
Alex supports the sales and operations teams, ensuring deals progress smoothly from proposal to completion. With strong analytical skills and attention to detail, he structures finance packages, liaises with funders, and maintains a seamless client experience. His background in data analysis and wealth management gives him a keen understanding of client needs and drives his methodical, research-based approach to achieving accurate, reliable results.
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Bethany Jordan
Administration Manager
With a sharp eye for detail and a passion for keeping things running smoothly, Bethany is the backbone of our day-to-day operations, whether coordinating schedules, streamlining office processes, or keeping the team organized. With several years of experience in administrative and operational roles, Bethany brings a strong skill set in office management, document handling, team support, data accuracy, and financial administration.
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Beth Beaumont
Administration Assistant
Beth brings excellent problem solving, time management and analytic skills to the First Business Team, as well as key health and safety qualifications. The team relies on Beth’s excellent digital literacy and compliance expertise on a daily basis.
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Kara Simmonds
Administration Assistant
With over 25 years of experience in administrative roles across the finance industry, Kara brings a wealth of knowledge, reliability, and professionalism to the First Business Finance team. Her deep understanding of office operations, document handling, and customer service makes her a valued support to both colleagues and clients. Kara is known for her calm, can-do attitude and her ability to keep processes running smoothly behind the scenes — ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. Her dedication, accuracy, and proactive mindset help maintain the high standards First Business Finance is known for.
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