Nick Ray, Director & Co-Founder
Having been in the asset finance industry since 2006, I decided that, with support from co-founder Simon, we could build a finance company to better serve the needs of SME’s. Pre-Claratus my background was split between a well-known independent finance company, mainly supporting leading software vendors, and a niche Fast Track 100 listed finance company, working directly with clients to meet their asset finance requirements. I believe the experience of both client direct and vendor led roles, has greatly improved my ability to serve both types of client.
My focus has always been on building long-standing relationships with clients and vendor partners by providing excellent customer service, quick response times and solutions that meet the demands of clients, whilst meeting funder’s requirements.
Originally from Cambridgeshire, having spent 8 years in London, I now live in Hertfordshire with my wife and two young children. I’m a regular gym goer and keen runner. I’ve had a passion for sports and supercars since childhood, regularly participate in trackdays and particularly enjoy those arranged for charity.
We have worked very hard at Claratus since 2015 to build a customer centric full-service finance company. With the level of facilities written, numerous satisfied repeat customers and referrals a testament that customers really do value our ethos.
Simon Clarke, Director & Co-Founder
Having worked in the asset finance industry for the past 11 years I became acutely aware that the service afforded to SMEs was not always of the highest standard. Originally working in wholesale finance for the World’s top mutual fund provider and later becoming a fully qualified financial adviser for a worldwide bank assurer I believe that some of these service levels and promises could and should be applied in the asset finance industry.
Throughout my career I have been in client facing roles, whether discussing and advising on retirement options or arranging asset finance for my long-standing customers. I believe this has honed my service and delivery to ensure I am always best placed to assist with customer’s requirements.
With the support of fellow founding Director, Nick, I believe we are ideally placed to provide the finance our customers need, with exceptional service they deserve.
Born in Kent and never moving from its borders, I now live near Tunbridge Wells with my wife, Emma and son, Ethan. I’m a keen power lifter, attaining the qualifying standard to lift in the National competition in the under 74kg category. Recently re-introduced to ice skating and with the help of my ever patient instructor and son I have reached grade 8. I have two dogs, both Beagles!