FLA names Shanika Amarasekara as new chief executive
The Finance & Leasing Association (FLA) in the UK has named Shanika Amarasekara as its new chief executive, effective from the beginning of August.
She will succeed Stephen Haddrill, who is set to retire from the trade body at the end of July.
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Amarasekara has extensive experience in financial services, with a focus on economic development and innovation.
Most recently, she served as chief impact officer at the British Business Bank, where she managed policy, strategy, economics, sustainability, and public affairs.
Amarasekara said: “It’s an honour to be joining the FLA at such a pivotal time.
“The finance and leasing sectors have a powerful role to play in driving sustainable growth, supporting innovation, and delivering fair outcomes for customers. The association already has a strong foundation – and I’m looking forward to working with the Board, members and stakeholders to build even greater impact, visibility and value in the years ahead.”
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By GlobalDataPrior to this, she held the role of general counsel at the same organisation, contributing significantly to the design and implementation of national finance schemes during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Her earlier career includes senior legal and advisory positions at the International Islamic Liquidity Management Corporation, where she worked on cross-border Islamic finance structures, as well as roles at the Royal Bank of Scotland and Allen & Overy.
FLA chair John Phillipou said: “The board is immensely pleased to have appointed Shanika to this key role.
“Stephen Haddrill, the outgoing DG, has done a great job modernising the FLA, and Shanika’s breadth of experience, range of contacts and astute industry insights will help shape the next phase of the Association’s development.”
In 2024, FLA members provided £155bn ($208bn) in new finance to UK businesses and households.
Of this, £115bn was consumer credit, accounting for nearly a third of total new consumer credit issued in the UK during the year.
Earlier this month, the FLA reported that asset finance new business, including leasing and hire purchase, rose by 11% in March 2025 compared with March 2024.
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