The Leasing Foundation has appointed Chris Sullivan, chief executive UK Corporate, RBS, has agreed to be its first governor and patron.

Foundation director and CHP Consulting COO Andrew Denton said: "We are delighted that Chris has agreed to be our first governor and patron. Chris started his career in leasing and has enormous knowledge of the sector as well as a continued affinity with our industry.

"He has been a leader in the financial services industry for nearly 40 years and that experience and leadership will be invaluable in achieving the Foundation's vision.

"His track record in supporting philanthropic work, developing people and championing diversity, all key aspects of the Foundation's mission, speaks for itself. There could be no better first name on the team-sheet."

Sullivan said: "The Leasing Foundation is a terrific initiative that will bring enormous benefit to the sector in which I started my career. Asset Finance will gain real value from the research contribution of the Foundation. I am particularly excited about the diversity and skills development programmes; removing the barriers that prevent people fulfilling their potential has been a passion and a focus for me throughout my career. In my role as Patron I am looking forward to providing a focus for the charitable activity for which the leasing industry has always been recognised."