NETSOL Appoints Former BMW Financial Services CEO Ian Smith to Board

NETSOL Technologies has appointed Ian Smith, former CEO of BMW Group Financial Services - USA and the Americas, to its Board of Directors. Smith brings over 30 years of experience in financial services and will contribute his expertise in digital transformation and global finance. He will help NETSOL expand its international footprint and deliver next-generation digital solutions.

ENCINO, Calif., July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NETSOL Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: NTWK), a leading provider of AI-powered solutions for asset finance and leasing, has announced the appointment of Ian Smith to its Board of Directors, effective July 1, 2025. Smith brings over three decades of global leadership experience in financial services, with a proven track record in automotive finance, digital transformation, and strategic growth [1].

Most notably, Smith served as the Chief Executive Officer for BMW Group Financial Services – USA and the Americas from 2017 to 2021, where he managed a balance sheet exceeding $50 billion and an annual net operating income of over $600 million. Throughout his career with the BMW Group, Smith held various executive roles, driving innovation and scale across diverse markets. Currently, he is the President of MIP, Inc., a medical textiles company operating internationally, and an Executive Advisor and Coach for PEO Leadership, a peer group leadership program for Presidents and CEO's [1].

Smith's qualifications span several international institutions, including a Certificate in Company Direction from the Institute of Directors and a Postgraduate Certificate from Edinburgh Business School. These credentials highlight his commitment to lifelong learning and governance excellence [1].

"We are thrilled to welcome Ian Smith to NETSOL’s Board of Directors," said Najeeb Ghauri, Founder and CEO of NETSOL Technologies Inc. "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."

"I am honored to join the NETSOL Board at such a pivotal time for the company and the financial services industry," stated Ian Smith. "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."

With Smith’s appointment, NETSOL strengthens its leadership bench with a Board Member whose strategic foresight and global business acumen are poised to significantly contribute to the company’s long-term growth and shareholder value [1].

References:
[1] https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/NETSOL-TECHNOLOGIES-INC-11269186/news/Netsol-Technologies-Inc-Appoints-Ian-Smith-to-Its-Board-of-Directors-Effective-July-1-2025-50458864/