Press release from the Stephex Group

"My father taught me that success, whether in sport or in business, comes down to two things: hard work and a drive to keep evolving."

To succeed at the highest level, in sport or in business, focus is key. It’s about making choices and going all in. Yet some people manage to thrive in both worlds without losing momentum. Zoé Conter (27) is one of them. In the saddle, she competes at the highest level, impressing on 5* showgrounds around the world. But behind the scenes, she’s also been carving out a second path, within Stephex Group, the international business empire built by her father, Stephan Conter. That journey now leads to a central role at STX Finance.

Stephex Group is not only home to the top-level showjumping stable Stephex Stables, but also active in the production of horse trucks and motorhomes, as well as the organisation of major events like Brussels Stephex Masters. Just earlier this month, the group revealed plans for a brand-new equestrian competition venue near St. Tropez.

As Managing Director of STX Finance, Zoé is now in charge of Stephex’s fast-growing leasing division for horse trucks, motorhomes and more. “After my studies, I gave myself some time to figure out where I could really add value within the family business,” Zoé says. “STX Finance was still developing, but I saw the possibilities and knew I could help shape its future.”

STX Finance was set up to lease Stephex vehicles: horse trucks, 2-horse vans and motorhomes. But Zoé saw room to grow. Under her leadership, STX Finance is now also targeting high-end vehicles, compact yachts and tailor-made luxury leasing.

“We noticed that our clients, besides looking for solutions for horse transport and motorhomes, were also interested in leasing other types of investments like luxury cars, boats and even real estate. They liked being part of the Stephex Experience and didn’t want to look elsewhere. At the same time, we’re seeing growing interest from clients outside the equestrian world looking for reliable leasing solutions for luxury cars, yachts or other high-end products. Thanks to our Stephex background, we understand the needs of riders, transport professionals and lifestyle clients like no one else. And we’re able to offer tailor-made solutions within a trusted brand that stands for style and quality,” Zoé says.

Zoé and her team are not only targeting new markets but are also focusing on international expansion and digitalisation. “Stephex is known for its personal and seamless approach, something that isn’t always easy to maintain on a global scale. That’s where digitalisation can make a real difference. We recently launched our new website and will soon roll out a new app that allows clients to easily follow up on their leasing files: an important step in our mission to make financial services more accessible, faster and more personal,” Zoé says.

Finance is all about trust and that’s exactly what Zoé excels at. “The reputation of Stephex Stables is a real asset. Being active as a rider helps you grow an international network,” she explains. “Clients associate Stephex with quality and that trust carries over to STX Finance. You could say we’ve built a flexible and reliable financial network on the strength of our roots in the equestrian world, with clients both in Belgium and abroad.”

But her equestrian career does more than build a network, it also makes her a stronger entrepreneur. “Top-level sport is demanding, but it gives me energy I can pour back into the business,” Zoé says. “It’s the combination of both worlds that keeps me in balance.”

By placing Zoé at the head of STX Finance, Stephex confirms its readiness for the future, powered by a motivated new generation and a strong focus on continued growth. “My father taught me that hard work and constant innovation are the foundation of everything. I want to carry on what he started and contribute to a fresh, forward-looking vision," Zoé closes off.

Discover STX Finance’s new digital environment at: www.stxfinance.com.

About Zoé Conter

Zoé Conter (27) is the eldest daughter of Stephan Conter, founder and CEO of the Stephex Group. She grew up in the heart of international showjumping. In 2016, she claimed team silver and individual bronze at the European Championships for Juniors, followed by another team silver with the Young Riders in 2017. Since then, she has been a consistent presence at the highest level, earning numerous international results at CSI5* competitions and FEI World Cup classes.

Her sporting journey took a dramatic turn in 2018, when a serious fall during a competition in Rome left her with multiple fractured neck vertebrae. Yet just five months later, she was back in the ring, a remarkable comeback that reflects the resilience and determination she now also brings to the business world.

Zoé joined STX Finance, the youngest division of the Stephex Group, in 2022. After just a few years, she worked her way up to become Managing Director.