Industry leaders join trade body’s board to advance commercial finance standards
The National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (NACFB) has confirmed the appointment of two broker Members to its board as Non-Executive Directors. Tom Perkins, Director and Co-Founder of Charles & Dean, and Evette Orams, Managing Director of Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions, have joined the NACFB board, effective as of January 2025, bringing fresh perspectives and proven expertise to the Association’s leadership.
Both individuals bring exceptional expertise and a shared commitment to the NACFB’s mission of championing professional standards and promoting sustainable growth within the commercial finance sector. Their appointments followed a rigorous application process, which included securing Member references, completing an interview process, and being approved by a clear majority vote at December’s AGM.
Commenting on her appointment, Evette Orams said: “With over 30 years of experience across both lending and broking within the invoice finance and asset-based lending space, I am thrilled to be joining the NACFB as a non-executive director. I look forward to collaborating with my new colleagues to deliver greater value to the commercial finance community and ultimately our SME clients.”
Tom Perkins added: “I am honoured to join the NACFB board and look forward to working with the Association to further elevate industry standards, foster collaboration, and empower our industry to drive innovation and growth.”
NACFB CEO Jim Higginbotham welcomed the new appointments: “Having individuals of Evette’s and Tom’s calibre join our board is a testament to the strength and diversity of our membership. Their fresh perspectives and proven leadership will undoubtedly enhance the NACFB’s ability to advocate for the commercial finance sector and support our Members in delivering unparalleled value to their clients.”
Adrian Coles, Interim Chair of the NACFB, expressed his enthusiasm for the appointments: “It’s fantastic to have Evette and Tom join the NACFB board. They each bring a wealth of experience and a passion for the commercial finance industry that will enrich our work. Evette’s deep knowledge of invoice and asset-based lending, paired with Tom’s innovative leadership in the asset and leasing space, will be invaluable. I’m excited to see how their unique perspectives will help us better support our growing community.”
Additionally, the NACFB is pleased to confirm that both Gary Cain and Steve Olejnik have had their tenures extended as Non-Executive Directors.
About the new appointees
Evette Orams, Managing Director – Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions
Evette Orams leads Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions, a multi-award-winning commercial finance brokerage specialising in invoice finance. Known for her strategic leadership and operational expertise, Evette has built strong partnerships with financiers and mentored high-performing teams, establishing Hilton-Baird as a trusted industry leader. Her commitment to advancing industry standards and best practices makes her an invaluable addition to the NACFB board.
Tom Perkins, Director & Co-Founder – Charles & Dean
Tom Perkins co-founded Charles & Dean, transforming it into a customer-centric brokerage supporting over 6,000 clients. A dynamic leader and innovator, Tom is recognised for leveraging technology, fostering partnerships, and promoting educational initiatives. His strategic vision and dedication to ethical standards will significantly contribute to the NACFB’s goals.