The Finance and Leasing Association’s (FLA) director general Stephen Skarloff will leave the organisation later this year after spending twelve years in the post.

While a statement issued by the FLA did not reveal a departure date for the former deputy director general of the Association of British Insurers (2000 and 2007), it did confirm that he would help to oversee a “smooth hand-over” to his successor.

Skarloff said: “It has been a privilege and a pleasure to work with the FLA’s members over the past twelve years as they have demonstrated their vital role in the UK economy, and commitment to high standards of customer service, during a time of huge change in the political, economic and regulatory landscape.

“I look forward to continuing to support them in the coming months, and in due course to ensuring a smooth hand-over to my eventual successor.”

Skarloff embarked on a successful career in the UK Civil Service ahead of his time with the ABI and FLA.

He has held roles as head of communications for three successive Secretaries of State: Margaret Beckett, Peter Mandelson and Stephen Byers.

Commenting on the announcement of his departure from the FLA this week, Richard Jones, the managing director of Black Horse Finance and chairman of the FLA, said: “Stephen has led the FLA through a time of unprecedented change, and through that period the FLA has become a larger, stronger and more influential voice for its members and their customers.

“On behalf of the board, our members and associates, I would like to thank Stephen for his leadership, passion and dedication over the last 12 years. His presence will be missed by all of us.”