Cambridge & Counties Bank prepares to mount offensive on West Midlands
ONE of the UK’s new challenger banks, the Cambridge & Counties Bank, is targeting the West Midlands for the latest stage of its growth strategy.
The bank bills itself as an alternative lender for the SME sector. It initially opened for business in June 2012 and has already lent more than £115m to businesses, mainly focussed on its East Midlands and East Anglian heartlands.
To help with its aim of establishing a foothold in the region, the bank has appointed a new business development manager for the West Midlands. Eddie Miszkowski, who lives in Kenilworth, has been tasked with working with the region’s SMEs to help them access funding for refinancing, expansion and acquisition.
Miszkowski, who has more than 25 years of experience in banking, said: “Many SMEs in the UK in a wide variety of sectors are keen to find an alternative to the big banks.
“This is also true of firms in Birmingham, Coventry, Wolverhampton and right across the West Midlands. The message to them – and to their West Midlands professional advisers – is that Cambridge & Counties Bank is open for their business.”
Miszkowski has previously worked for Halifax and Lloyds, most recently serving SMEs. He has a strong contacts network with the region’s accountants, lawyers and other business advisers.
Gary Wilkinson, chief executive at Cambridge & Counties Bank, said: “The West Midlands is a key economic driver for the UK and its private sector is at the heart of what we all hope will be sustained economic growth for the country.
“To invest in their premises, products and jobs, West Midlands SMEs need access to funding. We will help by bringing our refreshingly personal approach to lending, delivered with outstanding service from our team of experienced staff.”
