- Meet the TeamGet to know the friendly faces behind the team at Octane Finance
When you choose Octane Finance as your automotive financing partner, you're not just gaining access to our extensive panel of lenders and industry-leading solutions; you're also becoming part of a family – a tight-knit team of genuine, passionate individuals who are dedicated to your success. We pride ourselves on being #TheDealers Broker, and it's the unique personalities, diverse expertise, and commitment of our team members that truly set us apart from the competition.
We believe that our strength lies in the character of our people. Each member of our team brings something special to the table, whether it's their in-depth knowledge of the automotive industry, their resilience in the face of challenges, or their ability to forge strong, lasting relationships with our clients. It's this blend of skills, experience, and personality that allows us to deliver market-leading outcomes and real results, time and time again. Below we introduce you to the team that powers the Octane Finance engine…
Management Team
- Ian FrancombeCommercial DirectorIan has worked within the retail motor industry for more than 20 years, for a wide variety of franchises including Audi and Porsche, supplying funding solutions to both private and business clients. After a brief hiatus worki... Read MoreIan FrancombeCommercial DirectorIan has worked within the retail motor industry for more than 20 years, for a wide variety of franchises including Audi and Porsche, supplying funding solutions to both private and business clients. After a brief hiatus working in the Automotive digital arena, delivering high quality software solutions and marketing campaigns Ian returned to the Finance industry, working for a specialist lender before joining Octane. Ian is married and lives in Kent, 'The Garden of England' and when he's not financing cars he enjoys live music, motorsport and motorcycling, as well as an annual pilgrimage to the Le Mans 24 hour race!
- Dan HornerManaging Director Daniel has been in the automotive industry for over 20 years, working for franchise dealers such as Vauxhall, Saab, Chevrolet and Citroen and has covered many roles within Sales and Management. In 2013, Daniel joined Sa... Read MoreDan HornerManaging Director Daniel has been in the automotive industry for over 20 years, working for franchise dealers such as Vauxhall, Saab, Chevrolet and Citroen and has covered many roles within Sales and Management. In 2013, Daniel joined Santander Consumer Finance as a Regional Sales Manager and was a top performer by focusing on customer needs and delivering on promises. By 2018 Dan was ready for a new challenge and together with Dan Kirby they formed Octane Finance. Their goal was to build and deliver the best car finance offering possible to UK dealers big and small. Dan believes that you can have a fantastic business and also have fun at the same time - that it’s possible to be professional and friendly and... to enjoy the ride. Daniel is married to Alexa with 2 children, Harry and Maggie. He enjoys football and spending time with his young family.
- Daniel SamsSales DirectorDaniel started his work life after graduating from Buckinghamshire University he moved to New York as a football coach and by 22 he had established a very successful academy and camps programmes. Unable to retain a working vi... Read MoreDaniel SamsSales DirectorDaniel started his work life after graduating from Buckinghamshire University he moved to New York as a football coach and by 22 he had established a very successful academy and camps programmes. Unable to retain a working visa after 6 years state side Daniel returned home and dived into the motor trade. Working in sales for Citroen he gained great experience and knowledge for the general workings of the car trade and valuable skills in finance. Daniel loves to travel and has seen a lot of world already but heading for a new adventure in south America very soon. Daniel lives with his wife Lauren and his young son River who he enjoys taking to football classes and swimming lessons. Daniel is a die hard Tottenham fan and has a season ticket for their amazing new stadium.
Business Development Managers
- MikeBusiness Development ManagerMike has worked in the motor trade for over 20 years in a variety of different roles. Sales Manager at a Franchise dealer and at a lease company and also as owner of a commercial vehicle retail business. Mike was an Area Sale... Read MoreMikeBusiness Development ManagerMike has worked in the motor trade for over 20 years in a variety of different roles. Sales Manager at a Franchise dealer and at a lease company and also as owner of a commercial vehicle retail business. Mike was an Area Sales manager at an online automotive marketing company and most recently Mike worked for Close Brothers Motor Finance gaining vast knowledge and insight in the finance industry. Mike coaches his sons Junior U9's Grassroots football team and this takes up most of his time at weekends and training through the week but can always find time for a round of golf and is focused on reducing his handicap of 15! His love of football is also a major passion in his life and when younger (much younger he says), he played for Marine Football Club.
- LukeBusiness Development ManagerLuke started work life as an apprentice mechanic. Although it was a great experience, he really did not like getting his hands dirty! He then went on to work for Talk Talk in a telesales role where he developed his skills and... Read MoreLukeBusiness Development ManagerLuke started work life as an apprentice mechanic. Although it was a great experience, he really did not like getting his hands dirty! He then went on to work for Talk Talk in a telesales role where he developed his skills and progressed his career by becoming the call centre manager. Luke then left to travel the world, across Australia, New Zealand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Philippines and many more countries. Luke came home after being involved in the earthquake in New Zealand to become regional manager for spidersnet selling websites to car dealers where he built up a contact list of dealers and friends amongst the community. Luke then run a successful used car dealership meaning he knows what it's like to sit on both sides of the desk. He is now here as our Welsh dragon for Octane Finance. As you can see Luke loves to travel and see the world. He has a vast experience in the motor trade from all positions and knowledge of the world. Luke lives at home with his partner Charlotte and their little girl. He loves rugby, being a typical welsh man and is very passionate about what he does personally and professionally. Playing at a high level of rugby during his younger days he has now retired but is still a keen watcher across all leagues and codes of rugby.
- LiamBusiness Development ManagerLiam, started his working career in 1998 at NatWest Bank, progressing through the ranks to finally become and Credit Trader in financial markets. In 2012 Liam made the move into interdealer broking still in the financial mark... Read MoreLiamBusiness Development ManagerLiam, started his working career in 1998 at NatWest Bank, progressing through the ranks to finally become and Credit Trader in financial markets. In 2012 Liam made the move into interdealer broking still in the financial markets building a very competitive Credit trading desk in the Leverage Loan and High Yield market. As part of Liam’s banking career also did a stint in the Singapore office and whilst there, enjoyed travelling all over Asia. Following a Crohns Disease diagnosis, Liam left the City in 2016 to work locally and follow his passion in motor cars. Liams first role in the Motor trade was as Sales Executive at Saxton 4x4, progressing to Business Manager within 18 months. Liam has obtained a  vast knowledge of the motor industry and car finance solutions throughout his various roles in the motor trade.  Liam was married to Carlie in 2012 and has 2 children (Fletcher 12 Years old and Maggie 9years old) and he can be found at weekends with the kids at their respective football team matches.
- ShellyBusiness Development ManagerShelly has been in the automotive industry for 9 years now, selling luxury cars, in the main dealer network, starting with JLR, she's also had the pleasure of working for Mercedes-Benz and most recently, BMW. Before that Shel... Read MoreShellyBusiness Development ManagerShelly has been in the automotive industry for 9 years now, selling luxury cars, in the main dealer network, starting with JLR, she's also had the pleasure of working for Mercedes-Benz and most recently, BMW. Before that Shelly was a pub landlady for 10 years, running pubs and bars all over the North West of England. Shelly grew up in Holland so, Dutch is her second language and she tries to get back to Holland as much as she can to visit her family. When Shelly isn't travelling her time is spent socialising with family, friends and her two dogs.
- PaulBusiness Development ManagerPaul has worked within the automotive and financial services industry for more than 20 years. Working for a wide variety of manufacturers and funders, including GM, Volkswagen Group and Nissan, providing vehicles, funding, an... Read MorePaulBusiness Development ManagerPaul has worked within the automotive and financial services industry for more than 20 years. Working for a wide variety of manufacturers and funders, including GM, Volkswagen Group and Nissan, providing vehicles, funding, and fleet solutions to both retail and corporate clients. After a change of lanes working in property finance, Paul returns to automotive joining the team at Octane with a fresh perspective. When he's not out and about helping and supporting our dealer's, he lives in the Cotswolds where he enjoys music, sport, cooking up a storm with his home grown produce, enjoying a walk with his dog Jackson, and a pint in the local pub.
- SamBusiness Development ManagerSam started his career as an apprentice mechanical engineer for BAE Systems from the age of 17 years old. After completing the apprenticeship at the age of 20, Sam decided that working with cars was his calling. After 2 years... Read MoreSamBusiness Development ManagerSam started his career as an apprentice mechanical engineer for BAE Systems from the age of 17 years old. After completing the apprenticeship at the age of 20, Sam decided that working with cars was his calling. After 2 years as a sales executive, he progressed to business manager and 8 years later and predominantly working with BMW, He has gained some great experience over the years. Sam has been married to his wife, Rosie for 4 years and puts up with Sam playing Golf regularly.
- StuartBusiness Development ManagerStu has almost 20 years experience in a variety of sales and account management roles, primarily within business services, and is passionate about providing the highest possible level of service for his customers. He lives on... Read MoreStuartBusiness Development ManagerStu has almost 20 years experience in a variety of sales and account management roles, primarily within business services, and is passionate about providing the highest possible level of service for his customers. He lives on the south Kent coast with his wife Sue, and enjoys walks on the beach with their golden labrador George. A keen sports fan, Stu starts most days in his local gym and is a life-long supporter of Liverpool football club.
- JakeBusiness Development ManagerJake has been working in Motor Finance for the past 15 years, predominantly in sales roles with a bit of Marketing & Operations thrown in here and there. That's given him a wealth of knowledge in all things regulated fina... Read MoreJakeBusiness Development ManagerJake has been working in Motor Finance for the past 15 years, predominantly in sales roles with a bit of Marketing & Operations thrown in here and there. That's given him a wealth of knowledge in all things regulated finance. Starting out at Santander Consumer Finance (where he met Dan Horner, and his now wife), he moved to Paragon Motor for over 3 years then most recently, Blue Motor Finance. Based in Surrey, Jake has covered the whole South Coast & parts of London across his various roles. He lives with his wife & little baby boy who was only 6 months old when he joined Octane. Football, Golf & Boxing are Jake's big passions outside work, along with socialising with friends & family as much as possible. His hidden talent is cooking and plans to apply for Masterchef one day. His speciality is anything that packs a lot of flavour, particularly Asian foods.
- NaomiBusiness Development ManagerI began my career in finance, but during an interview for a credit control role, the interviewers remarked on my communication skills and suggested I'd excel in sales. Taking that advice to heart, I transitioned into sales, w... Read MoreNaomiBusiness Development ManagerI began my career in finance, but during an interview for a credit control role, the interviewers remarked on my communication skills and suggested I'd excel in sales. Taking that advice to heart, I transitioned into sales, where I've now built over ten years of experience. My career path later took me through the security industry, and for the past five years, I've been working in the motor industry. Outside of work, I love exploring new walking trails and discovering dog-friendly spots—I'm always accompanied by my Chihuahua, Biggie Smalls, who's my loyal sidekick on every adventure.
Sales Support Team
- RobOperations ManagerRob is also new to the motor industry having worked in the shipping industry for more than 20 years. After working his way up to manager level of a global company in his shipping career he is well equipped to handle the day t... Read MoreRobOperations ManagerRob is also new to the motor industry having worked in the shipping industry for more than 20 years. After working his way up to manager level of a global company in his shipping career he is well equipped to handle the day to day tasks that motor industry has to offer and developing strong relationships with company partners. Rob is married to wife Charlotte and has 2 children, Hallie and Hudson. He enjoys spending as much time as possible with them outside of work. When not doing this he likes to socialise with friends or go throw some darts with his local pub team.Â
- NatalieNew Business ProcessorNatalie has been in the motor industry for the past 5 years working in the accident repair sector. With strong customer service skills, she was nominated for Customer Service Advisor of the year in 2017 and prides herself on ... Read MoreNatalieNew Business ProcessorNatalie has been in the motor industry for the past 5 years working in the accident repair sector. With strong customer service skills, she was nominated for Customer Service Advisor of the year in 2017 and prides herself on customer satisfaction. Having come from a very busy and demanding area of the industry, she is keen to keep up the pace at Octane Finance. When she's not at work, she enjoys socialising with friends and family and has a passion for music and everything motor sport.
- RebeccaNew Business ProcessorRebecca began her career 3 years ago in the commercial finance industry, being actively promoted to a business development manager. Rebecca is new to the motor finance industry but has many transferable skills from the previo... Read MoreRebeccaNew Business ProcessorRebecca began her career 3 years ago in the commercial finance industry, being actively promoted to a business development manager. Rebecca is new to the motor finance industry but has many transferable skills from the previous experience she holds. She is very self-motivated, with great customer service skills and a positive attitude. Rebecca lives at home with her parents in Essex. She enjoys socialising with friends and family outside of work, and also visiting her parents' holiday home in turkey every year. Rebecca is also a massive chocoholic!
- GeorgeNew Business ProcessorGeorge is new to the motor industry having started his working career in the Retail sector. George prides himself on his customer service skills that he has gained from his experience working in a management role at a coffee... Read MoreGeorgeNew Business ProcessorGeorge is new to the motor industry having started his working career in the Retail sector. George prides himself on his customer service skills that he has gained from his experience working in a management role at a coffee shop. In his spare time he thoroughly enjoys watching motorsport, going mountain biking and travelling.
- EleanorNew Business ProcessorEleanor began her career at a local Estate agents in property sales where she found a passion for customer service and a love for being part of her clients buying experience. This skill set translates fantastically to the wor... Read MoreEleanorNew Business ProcessorEleanor began her career at a local Estate agents in property sales where she found a passion for customer service and a love for being part of her clients buying experience. This skill set translates fantastically to the world of automotive finance brokering and Eleanor was quickly helping Octane's customers realise their own dreams of vehicle ownership. Outside of the office Eleanor enjoys watching rugby, especially England. Walking her Poochon, Ralph and socialising with friends and family. Her perfect night out would be a cocktail bar followed by a Turkish meze.
- HollieNew Business ProcessorHollie is new to the motor industry, she decided she wanted a new career path after spending the last 10 years as an early years teacher. Her previous skill set has transferred well into her new role as she has many years of... Read MoreHollieNew Business ProcessorHollie is new to the motor industry, she decided she wanted a new career path after spending the last 10 years as an early years teacher. Her previous skill set has transferred well into her new role as she has many years of customer service experience under her belt and she is passionate about being part of a successful team. In her spare time she enjoys going to the gym, baking and spending quality time with her friends and family.
- JordanNew Business ProcessorJordan has worked within the motor finance industry for over 4 years and began her career working for the lender Blue Motor Finance. Starting in their Customer Services team she quickly progressed to Payouts Operator. During ... Read MoreJordanNew Business ProcessorJordan has worked within the motor finance industry for over 4 years and began her career working for the lender Blue Motor Finance. Starting in their Customer Services team she quickly progressed to Payouts Operator. During Covid she joined a small local broker as a New Business Processor before moving to the powerhouse that is Octane Finance. Outside of work she enjoys spending time and socialising with friends and family and looking after her cat.
- TeganNew Business ProcessorTegan took an interest in finance at school, and decided to go to college and study business finance, marketing and management. She successfully completed the 2 year course and got her college diploma achieving a distinction.... Read MoreTeganNew Business ProcessorTegan took an interest in finance at school, and decided to go to college and study business finance, marketing and management. She successfully completed the 2 year course and got her college diploma achieving a distinction. She then began her career working as a Business Development Manager in the sales industry at the age of 18. She then decided to follow her passion for finance and cars and then discovered Octane. In her spare time Tegan enjoys going to events and music festivals in with friends, she loves going out for nice dinners and drinking lots of red wine. Tegan is also kept busy being a full time mum to her new puppy Louie!
- MaddisonNew Business ProcessorMy background is Operations Managing at different companies before becoming a part of the Octane Family, ranging from Virgin Gyms to Primary schools across Essex. I grew up being part of a sporty household and found a love fo... Read MoreMaddisonNew Business ProcessorMy background is Operations Managing at different companies before becoming a part of the Octane Family, ranging from Virgin Gyms to Primary schools across Essex. I grew up being part of a sporty household and found a love for Netball at a young age. I have been privileged to play with the England girls, travelling the UK and Switzerland under 2 different National teams and being chosen to attend the England's International camp when I was 13. Along the way suffered many injuries which has now prevented me from playing, but off the court and over the years I have found a new enjoyment in socialising, drinking a few Malibu's and Pineapples, and attending festivals/concerts (especially Tom Jones).
- EllieNew Business ProcessorEllie has been in the Travel industry since the age of 17, working in various roles including as a booking agent and a marketing executive. When she's not looking after our Octane dealer partners, Ellie is kept busy making me... Read MoreEllieNew Business ProcessorEllie has been in the Travel industry since the age of 17, working in various roles including as a booking agent and a marketing executive. When she's not looking after our Octane dealer partners, Ellie is kept busy making memories with her 2 young sons. In her free time Ellie loves nothing better than listening to music and going out out for dinner.
Compliance / Performance Team
- DarrenCompliance OfficerDarren has worked in the finance industry for the last 15 years as a mortgage and insurance broker. Having worked in such a heavily regulated industry, treating customers fairly is a core principal and Darren goes the extra m... Read MoreDarrenCompliance OfficerDarren has worked in the finance industry for the last 15 years as a mortgage and insurance broker. Having worked in such a heavily regulated industry, treating customers fairly is a core principal and Darren goes the extra mile to ensure his clients are getting the best deal and will return time after time for their finance needs. Darren is a father of 3 teenage daughters, Millie, Isabelle & Libby. He enjoys spending time with his daughters when their social calendar allows, socialising with friends, mountain biking, golf, carp fishing and kayaking.
- CharlesHead of PerformanceCharles has always had petrol running through his veins. Having graduated with a degree in motorsport engineering he started his career in the motor trade at Jaguar Land Rover before moving to carwow. Here he joined as an aut... Read MoreCharlesHead of PerformanceCharles has always had petrol running through his veins. Having graduated with a degree in motorsport engineering he started his career in the motor trade at Jaguar Land Rover before moving to carwow. Here he joined as an automotive journalist before becoming a commercial data analyst. Charles joins octane with a wealth of experience which he plans to use to ensure Octane is the market leader in vehicle finance brokering. Outside of work, you can find Charles engaging in some sort of sport, whether it be football, golf, rugby or squash - he isn't fussy! Charles can also be found regularly at Touring Car events or at the F1 to get his motorsport fix. Charles also has just started an unhealthy financial relationship with his new BMW 335i.
- GrahamAccounts ManagerI have been in the motor industry since I was 17... a lifetime ago. Working for franchised dealers mostly, in admin and finance. The last four and half years with Octane as their accounts manager. I have been married to Davin... Read MoreGrahamAccounts ManagerI have been in the motor industry since I was 17... a lifetime ago. Working for franchised dealers mostly, in admin and finance. The last four and half years with Octane as their accounts manager. I have been married to Davina for 25 years and have two children and two grandchildren. That's why I am poor! We also have a Chipoo called Nigel who, as little as he his, is definitely the one in charge in our household! I have supported Man City since I can remember, through thick and thin, mostly thin, so definitely not a glory hunter. I also am a member of CAMRA (Campaign For Real Ale) which means visiting various hostelries throughout the country. It's a tough job but someone has got to do it!
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Are you a new or used vehicle dealer looking to enhance your customer financing options and boost your sales? Look no further than Octane Finance. By becoming an Octane Finance Partner, you can tap into our extensive network of lenders and our market-leading vehicle finance solutions.
We pride ourselves on delivering outstanding results for our partner dealers nationwide. Our team of experienced finance experts works diligently to support your customers throughout the entire vehicle finance process, ensuring that we understand and meet their unique needs while brokering the best possible deals on your behalf.
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Ready to get fuelled with Octane Finance? We're committed to helping you get behind the wheel of your dream vehicle with our market-leading finance options. While we’re best known for our car finance solutions, we can also accelerate your journey to a new van, motorbike, or specialist vehicle (such as a luxury model or race car) thanks to our unparalleled partnership with lenders across the UK.
We believe that choosing the right vehicle finance option shouldn't be a hassle. That's why our team is dedicated to doing the heavy lifting for you, so you can focus on finding the perfect vehicle to suit your lifestyle and budget. With a representative APR of 13.9%, you can trust that you're getting a competitive deal that's tailored to your needs.
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