NETSOL Technologies tapped another former leader with a European automaker to help guide the provider of artificial intelligence-powered solutions and services enabling OEMs, dealerships and financial institutions to sell, finance and lease assets

Appointed to the company’s board of directors effective July 1 was Ian Smith, who previously served as chief executive officer for BMW Group Financial Services – USA and the Americas from 2017 to 2021, where he was responsible for a balance sheet exceeding $50 billion and an annual net operating income of more than $600 million.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ian Smith to NETSOL’s board of directors,” said Najeeb Ghauri, founder and CEO of NETSOL Technologies. “Ian’s remarkable leadership at BMW Financial Services, coupled with his deep understanding of the global auto finance ecosystem aligns perfectly with our strategic vision. His insights into digitization and innovation will be instrumental as we continue to expand our global footprint and deliver next-generation solutions to our clients.”

“Ian’s exceptional leadership track record makes him a tremendous asset to our board,” Ghauri added. “His proven ability to scale large financial services organizations will help us accelerate NETSOL’s mission to lead the future of asset and automotive finance with operational excellence.”

During his extensive career with the BMW Group, Smith held a variety of executive roles, driving innovation and scale across diverse markets. He is currently the president of MIP, a medical textiles company operating internationally and is an executive advisor and coach for PEO Leadership, a peer group leadership program for Presidents and CEOs.

Smith also served as an advisory board member for Spring Free EV, a fintech company focused on sustainable mobility solutions.

“I am honored to join the NETSOL board at such a pivotal time for the company and the financial services industry,” Smith said. “Having witnessed NETSOL’s commitment to innovation and global growth, I look forward to contributing my experience in automotive financial services and digital transformation to help steer NETSOL toward its next phase of progress.”

In May, NETSOL announced an addition to its advisory board, welcoming Richard Howard, who the company called a distinguished automotive executive with an extensive leadership track record at Daimler Financial Services.