Meet the Team
Dan Kirby
Managing Director
Background
Dan began his motor trade career at Inchcape BMW as an apprentice at the age of 16. Having worked his way around each department from parts, service reception, valeting, workshop & sales, Dan soon developed a great understanding of how a franchised dealer group operated. At 19 he became the youngest BMW Sales Executive in the network and soon became one of the Cooper BMW's top performers. At 21 Dan opted to leave the PLC to join a local Independent Used Car Dealer. A world away from the million pound showrooms of a BMW dealer, much to the amazement of Dan's piers at the time. However the risk paid off and soon Dan became a pivotal member of this Basildon based Used Car operation. In 2012 Dan opted to go it alone and started his own, now Award Winning Used Car Dealership. Initially starting out with some 15 cars, he now holds over 300 on site with an annual turnover of £25million, still running to this day.
Octane Finance has been a natural progression, one that Dan felt there was room for in the car finance market. Being able to apply similar principles will ensure Octane Finance grows to be a nationally recognised finance broker.
Personal Life
Dan is married to wife Bethany with a young Daughter Harper. He enjoys spending quality time with his young family, living locally. Football & Motorsport are Dan's passion. Southend United is his club who he has supported for many years. Having competed in the prestigious Porsche Carrera Cup GB earlier this year, Dan is hoping to get back to Racing fulltime in 2019.
Daniel Horner
Sales Director
Background
Daniel has been in the automotive industry for over 15 years, working for franchises such as Vauxhall, Saab, Chevrolet and Citroen and has covered many roles from Sales to Management. In 2013, Daniel joined Santander Consumer Finance as a Business Develop Management to increase their penetration in a structured catchment area. This has given him valuable knowledge and understanding of what is required from dealer partners, customers and automotive lenders.
Personal Life
Daniel is married to Alexa with 2 children, Harry and Maggie. He enjoys football and boxing and spending time with his young family. He is also enrolled with the Open University, studying for a BA Honours Degree in Business & Management.
Graham Westwood
Operations Director
Background
Graham started his career in the London, working for Investment Banks and International Brokers. Which enabled him to work abroad in countries such as Dubai and France. He began his career in Motor Trade five years ago and has specialised in Car and Asset finance ever since.
Personal Life
Graham is Engaged to Roxie, and enjoys spending holidays in Ibiza where he is getting Married next year. Graham enjoys a round of golf at the weekends when he isn't working!
Oli Shephard
New Business Manager
Background
Oli is new to the motor industry having worked in the shipping industry for more than 10 years, after returning from Hong Kong where he oversaw sales teams throughout the Asia Pacific region. He brings a wealth of sales experience and an entrepreneurial acumen which will stand him in good stead to adapt to the day to day challenges the motor industry poses.
Personal Life
Oli is a big sport enthusiast, when he isn't watch Arsenal or the England Rugby team he is planning his next overseas adventure having visited over 30 countries already he's always looking for a new and different place to experience.