So that you can get to know our team a little better, here’s the first in our Spotlight series.
We caught up with Austin Smith, the co-founder of EFT Finance to find out a little bit more about what makes him tick.
Q: What was the driver for creating EFT Finance in April 2010?
A: Over at least three decades, my co-founder Henry Hemsley and I have built up extensive knowledge and strong contacts within the industry. Among many benefits of being an independent broker, EFT Finance has allowed us to help lots of different types of businesses. It’s hugely satisfying being able to make a difference for the owners of young, expanding and growing business.
Q: What’s great about working with the EFT Finance team?
A: In the last couple of years, we’ve expanded our team. We now have nine associates working with us. They all have different areas of specialism. This is great for increasing the ways in which we can help our customers. In addition, EFT Finance offers a compliance structure for the associates to operate within.
The associates are a great bunch and fun to work with. Everyone’s door is always open, so we have a friendly and supportive atmosphere.
Q: How did you get into the funding industry?
A: I trod the traditional route, which started in a bank, then a bank subsidiary, then to a brokerage.
Q: What is your area of expertise?
A: Aviation finance is my specialism, but these days I turn my hand to all areas.
Q: What are your pet hates?
A: Promising and not delivering. That makes me fume. I guess that’s a good pet hate to have when you run a business, because it makes sure that our focus on customer service is that of under promising and over delivering.
Q: What makes you laugh?
A: I enjoy visual humour. The film Blazing Saddles is a great example.
Q: What’s your favourite holiday destination and why?
A: I love winter sun, so the Caribbean gets my vote. You feel a world away from the cold in Sussex!
Q: Before you get too old, is there anything you’d like to do?
A: Easy! Drive Route 66.