Oportun Financial (OPRT) Prnewswire·2025-05-05 11:12Core Viewpoint - Findell Capital Management is advocating for a significant change in the board of Oportun Financial Corporation, urging stockholders to elect Warren Wilcox as an independent director to enhance governance and refocus on the core lending business [1][4][11]. Group 1: Board Composition and Governance - Findell Capital Management holds approximately 9.5% of Oportun's outstanding common stock and has been pushing for the board to act as a fiduciary rather than enabling the current CEO, Raul Vazquez [2][3]. - The legacy board has been criticized for failing to effectively oversee CEO Vazquez, who has been accused of mismanaging the company and inflating costs [6][9]. - The addition of independent directors in 2024 has led to some improvements, but the board is still seen as lacking independence and expertise in lending [3][7][9]. Group 2: Performance Metrics - Oportun has experienced a 40% dilution since Findell's engagement began, attributed to strategic missteps by the management [7]. - The company's total return has improved since the addition of new directors, but it remains underperforming compared to industry benchmarks [9]. - Key performance metrics show that Oportun's operational expenses per loan have increased significantly, contrasting with competitors like OneMain Holdings, which maintained flat operating expenses [12]. Group 3: Proposed Changes - Findell is advocating for a reduction in the board size from 10 to 8 members and the appointment of directors with lending experience to enhance oversight [12][13]. - The company is urged to reduce its operating expense ratio from 15% to 10% and remove the self-imposed interest rate cap of 36% to better serve its customers [13]. - The campaign emphasizes the need for a fully independent board with no ties to management to ensure accountability and effective governance [12][13]. Group 4: Nominee Profile - Warren Wilcox is presented as a highly qualified candidate for the board, with extensive experience in consumer financial services and a strong track record in fintech and credit card businesses [15][16]. - His background includes leadership roles in various financial institutions and companies, making him well-suited to contribute to Oportun's strategic direction [15][16].