NextGear Capital has appointed Simon Baldwin to its leadership team as operations director.

Baldwin (pictured) joins NextGear Capital from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, where he held the role of executive manager within the risk management department of the retail bank.

Prior to this, he held a number of leadership roles with Capital One in the UK, most recently as head of recoveries.

NextGear Capital’s managing director, Liam Quegan, said: “The breadth and depth of his experience in the financial services industry makes him well equipped to lead our operations team as we strive to continually improve our customer experience.”

Baldwin’s appointment follows an independent customer survey that saw the business receive "scores of 9 out of 10 across a whole range of criteria" including competence and helpfulness of staff, speed of service, and handling of enquiries.

Baldwin said: “I’m excited to have joined a forward-thinking and ambitious business that really puts the customer at the heart of everything it does.”

“NextGear Capital has a great product and continues to listen to customer feedback, innovate and grow.

I’m looking forward to using all the experience I have gained over the last 15 years in retail banking to drive the business’ future strategy and growth as part of the leadership team, and ensure we continue to provide great customer service.”