Meet the Directors

Andy Alderson – CEO & Founder

Andy launched Vanarama in 2004 as a used vehicle retailer before moving into B2B leasing of commercial vehicles in 2007. During his 12-year career in motor dealer groups, Andy developed key management skills that proved invaluable for building his own business.

Andy has a genuine passion for outstanding customer service and founded Vanarama on this ethos. He revolutionised the leasing broker market by launching a major TV and radio advertising campaign in 2013 and in 2014 he took the unprecedented step of becoming title sponsor to the then Football Conference (latterly renamed The National League), a decision resulting in huge growth in sales and brand recognition.

Today, Vanarama is one of the largest leasing companies in the UK thanks to Andy’s constant innovation and never being afraid to do what’s right for the customer.

Jo Elms – Chief Commercial Officer

Jo has worked in the motor industry for almost 20 years including roles at Ford, Nissan and 12 years at Leaseplan.

Jo joined Vanarama with responsibility to implement business and commercial strategies that aligned with the company values. She is responsible for all customer service, admin and product development teams.

Jo lives and breathes the ‘if it’s right for the customer it’s right for us’ value and loves working with a team that strives to do better every day. Digitising the way people buy cars, vans and pickups is the aim and Jo continues to be motivated by the way Vanarama is creating 21st century solutions in a traditional sector.

Gary Lemon – Sales Director

Gary has 15 years' worth of motor industry experience having held senior sales positions across several dealer groups before joining Vanarama as Sales Director in 2005.

Gary has full P&L responsibility for the Vanarama sales department and has overseen the significant growth in the business, having increased his team by more than 400% over the years.

He's developed a sales process that delivers real value for our customers. This works by finding the right vehicle and the right finance method through asking structured questions. He works closely with our key vehicle manufacturer and dealer group contacts to maximise strategic sales opportunities and ensure enough stock is available to fulfil growing demand. Gary has played a major role in shaping the company Vanarama is today.