Middleton joins Syscap with a CV notable for a series of high profile positions in the financial services sector. This experience, allied to Syscap's strong financial performance and innovative approach to financial services, will enable the company to move forward confidently as it expands into new global and vertical markets.

"We are delighted to be welcoming someone of such pedigree in financial services and business leadership," says Syscap CEO Philip White. "The relative uncertainty of the current economic markets is something we are actually in a position to embrace and approach with confidence. It represents a great opportunity for a dynamic company like ours that is prepared to break into new arenas, in terms of both geography and product development. Peter's profile, creative thinking, experience and industry contacts are a powerful combination that will help us maximise this opportunity."

Middleton's impressive financial services experience dates back to the mid 1980s, when he headed up Banking Operations at Midland Bank International. After a five-year spell at the Thomas Cook Group, where, as CEO, he turned around the fortunes of the travel operator, he took over as CEO of Lloyd's of London. Here, he created the framework for the reorganisation of the Lloyd's market and moved it from a previous trading loss of £8 billion to a profit of £3 billion over his three-year tenure. In 1995 he took over as CEO of Salomon Brothers and in 2000 he was appointed Transaction Director for Nomura International.

"Working with Syscap presents an intriguing and exciting opportunity," says Middleton. "These are fascinating times for companies with a flair for seeing and embracing new opportunities. Here is a company that has successfully transformed itself from a transactional leasing house to a fully fledged strategic finance partner in just a few short years. I am looking forward to working with a company that has such a fast moving and agile culture, and being part of the next phase of its development."