Paul aims to support growth of small firms

NATWEST bank has appointed a regional director in charge of supporting small businesses in the Milton Keynes, Bedford and Luton area.

Paul Brookes has been appointed regional director, business banking for South Midlands and Anglia, where he will have responsibility for the bank’s small business proposition.

He has taken on responsibility for running the NatWest business banking operations which supports companies that turnover up to £2m.

He will lead a team of six directors, including Greg Warman who manages the Bedford & Milton Keynes teams and Lewis French who manages the Luton team.

Mr Warman has 16 managers across eight branches and offices while Mr French has 13 managers across five branches and offices.

Mr Brookes has more than 21 years’ experience in banking beginning his career “I am looking forward to the challenge of the new role. SME’s are the lifeblood of the UK economy and we have an important role to play to support them in their operations. That will be achieved by understanding their businesses and supporting them on their agenda.

“The closer we can get to our customers, the better we can support them. We believe in a strong local proposition, with dedicated experienced managers focusing on the small business channel.”

He added that he would be supporting his managers in their efforts to help build economic growth.