Celebrating excellence in finance
Outstanding individuals and companies in the non-bank lending sector have won recognition at the annual Crediting Excellence Awards organised by the Financial Services Federation (FSF).
The awards gala dinner in Auckland on September 19 followed the FSF’s conference which this year offered insights on environmental, social and governance aspects affecting financial services and motor vehicle lending sectors.
Michael Bushell, Avanti Finance’s manager – complaints and training, scooped the Autosure Rising Star award, which is for new industry professionals who demonstrate outstanding achievement and commitment to the responsible financial services sector.
The judges said: “What stood out in Michael’s entry was his proactive work to improve processes and his passion for improving complaints processes in particular.”
Lyn McMorran, executive director, says the awards showcase the positive impact FSF members have on the non-bank lending sector.
“In today’s economic climate it is more important than ever that if people need to access credit they can do so and know there are alternatives to banks that will treat them fairly and responsibly,” she explains.
“There are 1.7 million New Zealanders who are customers of FSF members, the vast majority of which have a positive borrowing experience, and this is a moment to acknowledge that.”
The judging panel for 2023 was Andrew Mitchell, financial mentor team lead of Kaiwhakahaere Putea, Salvation Army; Susan Taylor, Financial Ombudsman and chief executive officer of Financial Services Complaints Ltd; and Chapman Tripp partner Luke Ford.
Autosure Rising Star
Winner: Michael Bushell, Avanti Finance. Finalists: Brendon Clark, hummgroup; Matthew Fung, Speirs Finance Group.
This award is for new industry professionals who demonstrate outstanding achievement and commitment to the responsible New Zealand financial services sector.
Centrix Workplace Champion
Winner: Rebecca Emery, hummgroup. Finalists: Josh Aloua, Avanti Finance; Jo Clews, DebtManagers.
This award recognises backstage heroes in the workplace whose outstanding attitude and support work empowers the organisation to thrive.
Provident Insurance Leadership Award
Winner: Monika Lacey, Centrix. Finalists: Kieran Stott, DebtManagers; Shannon Beech, Protecta.
This award celebrates the federation's leaders who empower their team, promote good conduct, company culture, and outcomes for customers.
Happy Prime Team Spirit Award
Winner: DebtManagers field agent team. Finalists: Yoogo Fleet (a division of Spiers Finance Group); Avanti Finance people & capability team
This award is for high-achieving teams with a fantastic team spirit, who look after each other and make the workplace a good place to be.
Speirs Finance Innovation Award
Winner: Centrix. Finalists: Equifax; Resimac.
This award celebrates FSF member companies that have displayed significant innovation, initiative and thought leadership to enhance their company's or clients' abilities to thrive.
Equifax Community and Sustainability Award
Winner: DebtManagers. Finalists: Speirs Finance Group / Yoogo Fleet; IDCARE.
This award celebrates FSF member companies involved in initiatives that have a positive impact on the lives of New Zealanders.
