V12 Retail Finance, a division of Secure Trust Bank Group, has appointed Ben Harvey as commercial director as the business looks to accelerate its direct-to-consumer strategy.
Harvey joins the business from fintech lender Vemi Money, where he served as CEO. In his new role, he will oversee the development and execution of V12’s direct-to-consumer proposition and take responsibility for the associated profit and loss performance.
He brings more than 20 years’ experience across consumer lending and digital banking, including 18 years at Barclays in senior commercial and leadership positions in the UK, Europe and the US. His most recent role at the bank was head of personal loans and branded credit cards.
Harvey has also held founder and CEO roles at fintech firms including Vemi Money and Pennyworth Financial and has advised several consumer lending businesses on growth strategy and product development.
Andrew Phillips, managing director of V12 Retail Finance, said Harvey’s appointment would help strengthen the company’s retailer partnerships and support the next stage of growth.
“I’m delighted to welcome Ben to V12 and the wider Secure Trust Bank Group. He brings deep experience in building and scaling consumer lending propositions, alongside a strong commercial mindset and a clear focus on customers and partners,” he said.
“As we continue to grow and evolve the V12 proposition, Ben's experience will be invaluable in helping us build on our strong foundations, deepen our retailer relationships and support sustainable growth. This appointment further strengthens our leadership team and reflects our ambition for the next phase of V12's development.”
Harvey said he was attracted by the opportunity to grow an already established business and apply experience gained across both major banks and fintech startups.
“Throughout my career, I’ve been focused on building and growing consumer lending propositions that genuinely work for customers and STB stood out as a business with a solid foundation, a clear plan and strong momentum,” he said.
“What attracted me was the opportunity to develop the proposition, and to scale what is already a well-established business.”
V12 said its direct-to-consumer initiatives form a central part of its long-term strategy, complementing its existing retail finance platform and retailer network.