Australia’s non-bank auto and equipment finance provider, Metro Finance, has appointed David Albest as its new CEO, as founder and former CEO, Phillip Crossman, moves into the role of executive chairman within the business.

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

Crossman was pleased to see Albest stepping into the role of CEO at Metro – a company he founded in 2011.

“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,” he said.

“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 executive chairman.”

In his new role as CEO, Albest brings over 25 years of asset finance experience, including over 10 years spent with Metro. As one of Metro’s first employees, he has been instrumental in growing the business from just three staff and is credited with helping to instill Metro’s customer-first collaborative culture.

On his appointment as CEO, Albest said he was excited for what the future holds for the business and paid tribute to Crossman.

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

“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.”