Our board is made up of some of the industry’s most trusted leaders:
James Piper | CEO
James is founder and CEO of Lightbulb Credit. A qualified accountant with over 20 years of commercial finance experience, he previously held senior roles at FTSE 100 and private equity–backed businesses. He started Lightbulb Credit in 2018 to help businesses make the most of their credit ratings and limits.Under James’ leadership, Lightbulb has helped thousands of businesses improve their credit profile and access new funding. He continues to drive innovation and growth by combining financial insight with a deep understanding of credit agencies and funding markets.
James is a passionate advocate for fairer credit data and is a keen golfer and traveller.
Olek Smith | COO
Olek is a qualified management accountant and strategic leader, with deep experience in forecasting and financial operations.As Lightbulb’s COO for six years, he’s driven operational scale using automation and data. He previously worked with James at a PE-backed company.
Outside of work, Olek enjoys cooking, Padel and golf.
Adrian Crean | Non-Executive Chair
Adrian is a board-level leader with 30+ years’ experience in data, tech and managed services across sectors.He now focuses on advisory and non-executive roles and is passionate about helping Lightbulb become a market leader in credit solutions.
Outside work, Adrian enjoys racket sports, running and family life with five daughters.
Ian Green | Non-Executive Director
Ian is a restructuring and turnaround expert with 20+ years’ experience helping distressed companies recover.Formerly a PwC Partner, Ian is known for strategic insight and hands-on leadership. He helps Lightbulb clients navigate complex financial challenges.
His experience includes leading government-reported pandemic ventilator builds.
Foresight Group | Investors
In 2023 Foresight Group invested in Lightbulb following success in improving portfolio businesses’ credit ratings.“Lightbulb Credit has continued to deliver outstanding value to UK businesses since our initial investment. James and the team have not only built a market-leading service but continue to innovate in how they support clients in improving their financial standing. It’s a privilege to sit on the board and contribute to the company’s exciting growth journey.”
Ray Harris | Investment Director | Foresight