MAJOR Australian non-bank auto and equipment finance provider Metro Finance has appointed David Albest as its new CEO.

He moves into the role as Metro Finance founder and previous CEO Phillip Crossman becomes executive chairman.

Before his announcement as CEO, Mr Albest was Metro Finance’s chief operations officer and has been with the company for more than a decade.

Left to right. David Albest and Phillip Crossman

“As I take on this new role within the company, I’m delighted to be passing the baton to David; someone I have worked with closely for over a decade, and someone with a wealth of experience both within the Metro business and in the wider finance sector,” said Mr Crossman.

“I am certain David will continue to take Metro to new and exciting heights, and I’m looking forward to supporting David as CEO in my new capacity as Metro’s executive chairman.”

Mr Albest brings more than 25 years of asset finance experience to the business, including over 10 years at Metro Finance.

As one of Metro’s first employees, he has been instrumental in growing the business from three staff and is credited with helping to instil Metro’s customer-first, collaborative culture.

“It’s an exciting time for the Metro business as we continue to innovate and offer new products to our customers,” said Mr Albest.

“Certainly, Phil leaves some huge shoes to fill. But I’m thrilled to be taking on this new opportunity with the company I have spent the last decade helping to build.

“I’d like to thank Phil, our staff and introducers for their continued passion, dedication and support.

“I’m looking forward to taking on this incredible opportunity and leading the Metro team into a new chapter.”

Metro Finance unveiled an Australian-first: its new MetroEco product, designed to make it easier and more affordable for small-medium businesses to invest in environmentally friendly assets such as electric vehicles, farming equipment, solar panels and charging solutions.

Metro Finance, which Mr Crossman started in 2011, works with a national network of introducers to provide a range of customer-led financial solutions including commercial and personal finance and novated leasing.