Novuna has appointed Zarina Ward as chief HR officer for the group following the planned retirement of the company’s previous group HR director.

Zarina Ward, chief HR officer at Novuna

The appointment marks the next chapter in strengthening Novuna’s people strategy, drawing on Ward’s 20 years plus of experience as a strategic HR leader.

She joins from Verian Group (formerly Kantar Public), where she served as global chief people officer, overseeing people and talent functions across 23 countries. At Verian, she was instrumental in shaping and implementing the organisation structure post divestment including extensive business transformation.

In her new role, Ward will lead Novuna’s people function across its business divisions – Consumer Finance, Vehicle Solutions, Business Finance and Business Cash Flow – as well as its pan-European operations spanning MHC Mobility and European Vendor Finance. Her remit will cover the full breadth of the group’s people agenda, from talent and culture to organisational development and employee experience.

Ward’s career spans professional services, consulting and private equity sectors in the UK, Europe and globally. She has previously held senior positions at MindGym, RGP and Oliver Wyman Group. Ward also serves as a Trustee on the Board at Connection Support, where she provides pro-bono consulting to a charity that delivers services to vulnerable people with complex needs.

Ward holds a law degree and will be based at Novuna’s headquarters in Staines.

Robert Gordon, chief executive officer at Novuna, said: “Our colleagues are at the heart of our success, and I’m confident Zarina will help us continue to build a high-performing, inclusive culture that supports our customers in an increasingly competitive market.”

Ward added: “It’s an exciting time to join Novuna and to build on its strong employer brand and established reputation in financial services. I’m passionate about creating inclusive people strategies that enable colleagues to reach their potential, while driving continual improvement and supporting long-term business growth. I look forward to bringing a fresh perspective and working with the leadership team to shape the future of the organisation.”