Chamber member
SWIG Finance has welcomed two new recruits to its growing team, at the same time as saying farewell to one of the company’s longest- standing employees who has retired.
Nicki Kimberley has started as Startup Loans Officer, a role that involves supporting applicants to the Start Up Loans scheme and helping them secure the finance they need to get going.
Having 12 years’ experience within the Financial Services industry, Nicki’s most recent role as Business Specialist for HSBC saw her working with startup and growth businesses with a turnover of less than £2million to achieve their financial goals.
Mike Wall has succeeded Brian Steer in the role of Portfolio Manager. Mike is already well- known to SWIG, having previously worked at the company as Business Manager until last year.
Mike is a former commercial lending manager, with well over 30 years’ experience throughout all aspects of “front line” banking, primarily with Barclays Bank.
Brian Steer’s retirement after 14 years’ service is well-deserved, coming after a particularly challenging time due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Brian has played a pivotal role in supporting SWIG’s customers and overseeing the stability of the company’s loan book over the last few months.
Since joining SWIG, Brian has seen the company triple in size and develop into the region’s leading Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI). The growth of the business led to the need for a Portfolio Manager, a role Brian has expertly filled since 2010.
A keen adventurer, Brian is looking forward to spending his retirement exploring new destinations (when it safe to do so), with Canada at the top of his list. Brian also has three grandchildren who he is looking forward to spending more time with.
Managing Director John Peters said “Nicki’s appointment comes at a time when there is a growing demand for startup finance. I am so pleased she has been able to join us, having known her for some time when she at HSBC. I’m sure Nicki will make a huge contribution to the ongoing success of our startups team and help us to meet and exceed customers’ expectations.”
“And we’re delighted to welcome Mike back. Mike is a very popular team member and is extensive credit management experience and local knowledge will be invaluable to us as we continue to serve the South West SME market to the best of our ability in these challenging times.”
“I’d like to thank Brian for his hard work over the years. He is a valued team member who will be missed by all at SWIG”.
About SWIG Finance
SWIG Finance provides loans from £500 to £250,000 to South West Start Ups and SMEs who cannot access sufficient support from their bank.
We are an accredited delivery partner for the British Business Bank’s Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) and the Start Up Loans Company.
If you are seeking support to start up or grow, or you need cash flow support while your business gets back on its feet, get in touch with our friendly and professional team to find out how we can help: info@swigfinance.co.uk / 01872 227 932.
Alternatively, for more information, visit https://www.swigfinance.co.uk/coronavirus-business-interruption-loan-scheme-cbils/
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