Funding Circle Appoints Grover CEO Rob Straathof as Next Chief Executive

Funding Circle Holdings PLC has appointed Rob Straathof as its next Chief Executive Officer, subject to regulatory approval. He is expected to join the company in the first half of 2027.

Funding Circle Holdings PLC, a London-based lender to small and medium-sized businesses, has appointed Rob Straathof as its next Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Lisa Jacobs, who announced her intention to step down in September 2026. Straathof’s appointment is subject to regulatory approval, with his joining date expected in the first half of 2027 and the exact date yet to be confirmed.

Straathof currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Grover Group GmbH, a Berlin-based technology subscription platform. Prior to this, he spent a decade leading Liberis, a small business lending company, bringing significant experience in financial services, technology and lending to small businesses.

Jacobs will continue in her role to oversee the leadership transition and is expected to step down no later than September 2027. Her departure will follow the appointment of her successor and the transition period.

Commenting on his appointment, Straathof highlighted the opportunity to use technology and data to expand access to finance for UK small business owners. He also expressed his intention to work with the team to advance Funding Circle’s existing strategy, building on the company’s established foundations and values-driven culture.