Liz Kistruck: A Trailblazer in Finance and Leadership
Liz Kistruck is an accomplished finance executive with a career spanning multiple industries, including automotive, fashion, travel, and technology. Currently serving as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Motorway, a UK-based online used car marketplace, she has built a reputation for her strategic leadership and financial expertise. Kistruck’s journey is marked by impressive roles and contributions to some of the most dynamic and fast-paced sectors in the global economy.
Early Life and Education
Liz Kistruck’s academic foundation is as impressive as her professional career. She holds a Master of Engineering degree from the University of Cambridge, one of the world’s leading academic institutions. This rigorous education provided her with a strong analytical and problem-solving skill set, which she has applied throughout her career.
To further enhance her professional qualifications, she became a member of The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) in 2007. This membership reflects her commitment to excellence and continuous learning in the field of financial management.
Career Milestones
Motorway: Driving Financial Growth
In July 2023, Liz Kistruck took on the role of CFO at Motorway. Motorway, known for its innovative online platform for buying and selling used cars, relies on Kistruck’s leadership to strengthen its financial and legal operations. Her strategic vision is instrumental in steering the company towards profitability and sustained growth.
As CFO, Kistruck oversees critical financial operations, collaborates with leadership teams, and ensures the alignment of financial strategies with the company’s objectives. Her expertise is vital as Motorway navigates a competitive marketplace and focuses on delivering exceptional value to its customers.
Lyst: Fashion Meets Technology
Before joining Motorway, Kistruck served as CFO at Lyst, a global fashion technology platform. During her tenure from June 2022 to July 2023, she played a key role in managing the company’s financial strategies and fostering innovation in the fashion tech space. Her ability to adapt to different industries highlights her versatility and forward-thinking approach.
Expedia Group: A Global Powerhouse
Kistruck’s 14-year tenure at Expedia Group stands out as a cornerstone of her career. She held several high-impact roles, including:
- CFO for Expedia for Business (2021-2022): She led financial operations for this division, focusing on partnerships and B2B strategies.
- Senior Vice President of Global Marketing Analytics (2019-2021): In this role, Kistruck utilized data-driven insights to enhance marketing efficiency and effectiveness on a global scale.
- CFO for Hotels.com (2016-2019): Her financial leadership contributed to the growth and operational success of one of Expedia’s most prominent brands.
These roles allowed her to manage large, multinational teams, drive significant growth, and implement transformative initiatives.
Other Key Roles
- ICI Paints: Liz Kistruck honed her financial skills as a Commercial Finance Manager and Supply Chain Finance Manager.
- Hear.com: As a Non-Executive Board Member, she provided strategic guidance from September 2021 to September 2022.
- Royal Philharmonic Orchestra: Kistruck’s passion for the arts is reflected in her role as a Non-Executive Director since April 2017. Her contributions help support one of the UK’s premier orchestras.
Personal Life and Values
Liz Kistruck is married to Simon Case, a prominent British civil servant and former Cabinet Secretary. The couple, married since 2007, has three children. Despite their high-profile careers, they prioritize maintaining a balance between professional commitments and family life.
Kistruck’s dedication to personal growth and community engagement extends beyond her professional roles. Her involvement with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra underscores her commitment to fostering cultural enrichment.
Leadership Style and Achievements
Liz Kistruck’s leadership style is characterized by strategic vision, adaptability, and a data-driven approach. She excels in managing complex financial operations, leading diverse teams, and driving innovation across various sectors. Her achievements include:
- Leading financial transformations in global organizations.
- Implementing data analytics to enhance operational efficiency.
- Successfully navigating industries ranging from travel to automotive and fashion.
Her ability to seamlessly transition between industries demonstrates her depth of knowledge and her readiness to tackle new challenges.
Future Vision
As CFO at Motorway, Liz Kistruck is focused on guiding the company through its next growth phase. Her strategic insights and financial acumen position Motorway as a leader in the online automotive marketplace. She is committed to leveraging technology and innovation to create value for customers and stakeholders alike.
Conclusion
Liz Kistruck’s career is a testament to the power of adaptability, expertise, and leadership. From her academic achievements at Cambridge to her impactful roles in global organizations, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to lead and inspire. As she continues to shape the future of Motorway and contribute to the broader business community, Kistruck’s journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring leaders in finance and beyond.
