BNP Paribus Leasing Solutions UK has brought Nick Hoof on board to set up its healthcare division as head of healthcare.

Previously, Hoof (pictured) was healthcare sales manager at Siemens Financial Services for seven years. He was also director of corporate asset finance at Bank of Scotland.

BNP Paribus has identified healthcare as a key focus area within its three year business growth plan for the UK.

Commenting on his new role, Hoof said: “Healthcare is a real growth market and new advances in technology are being made all the time. However, there are financial challenges involved in accessing this technology. Currently, the NHS is struggling to acquire new equipment within its budget, while private hospitals are also having difficulties in keeping pace as new technology becomes available. Suppliers in the sector are also being asked by customers to find new rental and managed equipment service type solutions which create working capital challenges.

“Thankfully, leasing is growing in popularity within the healthcare sector as financial leaders look to explore new ways to acquire equipment. As we establish this new division we will be looking to work with NHS lease advisory channels and figure out the best market fit for our services.”