When a new leader steps into a role, they don’t just bring experience; they bring perspective. And in the case of Sharon Clampin, newly appointed CEO of Giant Finance+ (GF+), that perspective is shaped by over three decades in commercial finance, working closely with SMEs across multiple industries.
But what stands out isn’t just her experience. It’s her clarity on what GF+ can become and the role it can play in helping businesses grow.
Sharon’s journey into GF+ wasn’t accidental. It’s the result of a long-standing career focused on one core mission: helping businesses access the funding they need to succeed.
“I’ve been in the commercial finance industry… for probably 30 years plus, dealing basically with funding SMEs across multiple different sectors.”
From building funding products to working across sales, risk, operations, and finance, Sharon brings a well-rounded understanding of what it takes to run and scale a business.
That breadth of experience now feeds directly into her vision for GF+.
Interestingly, Sharon’s connection with Giant Group goes back much further than her appointment as CEO.
Having encountered the business earlier in her career, she kept a close eye on its growth, drawn to its culture and principles. When the opportunity came to step into a leadership role, it aligned perfectly with what she was looking for.
Not just another role, but a chance to build.
As she puts it, she wanted:
“an opportunity where I could develop something… and really build something for the benefit of the business and the people within it.”
That mindset sets the tone for what comes next.
At the heart of Sharon’s strategy is a simple but powerful ambition: to position GF+ as a key player in the SME funding space.
But this is not about growth for growth’s sake. It’s about unlocking opportunity.
GF+ offers a unique, integrated proposition that removes complexity for business owners, combining funding with operational support. For Sharon, that is where the real potential lies.
The focus now is on expanding reach, building stronger market presence, and tapping into opportunities that go beyond traditional channels.
Recruitment agencies remain a core focus for GF+, and for good reason. They operate in a fast-paced, cash flow-sensitive environment where the right support can make a significant difference.
Sharon’s goal is clear: to make GF+ the first choice for agencies looking to fund and grow their business.
But what sets the approach apart is not just the funding itself. It is the added value that comes with it.
From payroll and billing to compliance support and strategic guidance, the aim is to create a more complete solution, one that goes beyond simply providing capital.
Looking ahead, there is also potential to expand into other sectors, particularly those with similar operating models. Businesses that rely on time-based billing, for example, present a natural opportunity for diversification.
While growth opportunities are there, Sharon is also realistic about the challenges businesses face.
The recruitment sector, like many others, has seen significant shifts in recent years. Market conditions, labour shortages, and economic uncertainty have all played a role in reshaping how businesses operate.
In this environment, the role of GF+ becomes even more important. Taking on the complexity of funding and back-office processes, it allows businesses to focus on what they do best: growing their client base and delivering value.
If there is one theme Sharon returns to consistently, it is cash flow.
“Cash flow is king. Cash flow drives the business.”
It is a principle that underpins every successful business, yet one that is often overlooked or misunderstood.
Her advice to business leaders is simple but direct: do not ignore it.