Today (Monday, 8th December) Skipton Business Finance (SBF) part of the Skipton Group announces the appointment of Catherine (Cathy) Lewis as its new Chair.
Cathy joins Skipton Business Finance with a career spanning more than 37 years across diverse sectors, including financial services, Government, insurance, and retail. Known for her strategic vision and ability to drive transformation, she brings deep expertise in leadership, operational excellence, and customer-focused delivery.
A highly accomplished former FTSE 100 Group HR Director, Cathy has led major HR transformations, shaped leadership and development strategies, and overseen structural and policy frameworks across multiple organisations. Combining broad people and operational leadership expertise with a strong customer focus, she also brings valuable governance experience as a Non-Executive Director and Committee Chair for private and subsidiary company remuneration committees.
Commenting on the appointment, Cathy Lewis said: “I am delighted to be joining Skipton Business Finance at this exciting time and looking forward to working with Chief Executive Greg Bell and the whole team.”
Gwyn Burr, Skipton Group Chair, said:
“I am pleased to welcome Cathy Lewis as the new Chair of Skipton Business Finance. Cathy’s impressive career, spanning executive roles across financial services, Government, and retail, combined with her deep expertise in people and operational leadership, makes her an outstanding addition to the business.
“Her knowledge and leadership will be instrumental in strengthening Skipton Business Finance as we continue to help UK SMEs achieve their ambitions, whilst also being a valuable asset to the wider Skipton Group.”
Cathy Lewis will join Skipton Business Finance on the 1st January 2026.
About Skipton Business Finance:
Skipton Business Finance has been supporting UK SMEs for over 20 years by providing tailored working capital solutions that enable ambitious growth. Their services empower businesses to take the next step in their journey—whether it’s a start-up seeking a cashflow boost or an established company planning an acquisition. SBF offers a range of facilities, from credit-managed options for owner-managers to confidential turnkey solutions, ensuring flexibility to meet diverse business needs.
As part of the Skipton Group, SBF shares a commitment to building strong relationships with customers and communities. The company prides itself on exceptional client care and keeps customer needs at the heart of every decision, reflecting its mission to help businesses thrive.