Financial services company CEO to retire

CLEARWATER — Ralph Finkenbrink will retire as president and CEO of consumer and automobile loan company Nicholas Financial Inc. as of Sept. 30.

According to a press release, his retirement is for personal reasons. He will also resign as a director and chairman of the board on the day of the company's annual meeting of shareholders, which will likely be held before the end of September.

The statement says the board of directors will start a search for a new president and CEO shortly.

“The Board of Directors of Nicholas Financial expresses its gratitude to Ralph for 29 years of service to the Company, 25 of which have been in senior executive positions,” says Senior Vice President of Branch Operations and board member Kevin Bates in a statement.