DF Capital’s Ian Martin celebrates 30 years in the leisure industry
DF Capital, the specialist bank providing award-winning inventory finance solutions to dealer and manufacturing businesses, is marking a significant milestone for a member of its team. Ian Martin, managing director of leisure, is celebrating 30 years in the leisure industry.
Ian, who began his career looking after both motor and leisure customers at Chartered Trust, became one of the founding members of the Chartered Trust caravan team in 1994 and has never looked back.
What have you learnt?
It’s such a friendly industry. Everyone I have dealt with – the dealers, the manufacturers and the parks – have always been very welcoming. It’s what has kept me in this sector. I’m now, in some cases, dealing with 2nd and 3rd generation of families running the businesses and it’s great to see how they’ve grown and developed over the years.
What has changed in that time?
The biggest thing is that there are now fewer manufacturers and dealers due to consolidation and owners going into retirement.
Why do you think you stayed in this industry for so long?
There are two key aspects – the interesting people and the fact that I’ve been able to grow in my career so I’ve never needed to look elsewhere.
Who has helped you most in your career?
Mike Harding, my old boss at Chartered Trust. He formed the Chartered Trust leisure team, and we worked together for almost 14 years. He had been in the industry since 1985 and retired 15 years ago.
Ian encourages anyone considering a career in the leisure industry to give it a try. He says: “Just do it, it’s great. It’s very different to other sectors, such as motor or motorcycles. All you need is a willingness to learn and a desire to meet everyone.”
Carl D’Ammassa, CEO of DF Capital commented: “Ian’s 30-year career is a testament to his dedication and expertise in the leisure industry. His ability to build lasting relationships and adapt to industry changes has created a wealth of knowledge that is unrivalled in this sector. We are proud to have Ian as a key member of our team and look forward to many more successful years together.”
