Paragon Bank’s SME Lending division has signalled its intent to grow its Direct and Vendor proposition with the appointment of two new Business Development Managers (BDM).
Andrew Kenny has joined the team to build the FTSE 250 bank’s direct proposition in the HGV, trailer and tanker sector, while Joshua Atkinson has been appointed as BDM for the North East region.
Andrew joins the team from Close Brothers, where he was national accounts sales manager in the Asset Finance and Leasing division. He has 13 years’ experience in financial services, including roles at Dawson Group, Lombard, Star Asset Finance and NatWest.
Joshua started his career as a professional rugby league player for Castleford Tigers, Queanbeyan Kangaroos and Newcastle Thunder, before moving into sales-focused roles. He joins Paragon from Bluestone Leasing, where he spent over eight years, most recently as a Regional Account Manager.
Terry Lloyd, Paragon Bank Head of Vendor, said: “We have a clear commitment to grow our Vendor and Direct proposition and these two strategic appointments are an important step in that journey, expanding our regional presence, as well as our expertise in a key market. Joshua and Andrew have strong backgrounds in their respective fields and will play a key role in achieving our growth objective.”
Andrew commented: “Paragon is a strong bank with a growing reputation in the asset finance market. I’m looking forward to working with operators in the HGV sector, helping them to secure the finance they need to grow their businesses and meet their ambitions.”
Joshua added: “The North East economy is growing, with a strong advanced manufacturing sector and a burgeoning renewable energy market. With several significant infrastructure projects in the pipeline and major investments, such as the AI datacentre in Northumberland, SMEs will be looking for finance to support their growth. I can’t wait to get out and grow Paragon’s presence in the region.”
