Tell us what attracted you to join the NWF?
The mandate: I connected with the idea of financing projects which are critical to the UK’s delivery of Net Zero and which wouldn’t otherwise attract traditional finance, potentially slowing the country’s progress on this important topic. Also, as a northerner, who had previously had a built a career based in London, I was also keen on advancing regional and local economic growth, helping to build a large, lasting, significant financial institution in the north of England.
What does your role involve?
My role involves managing and mitigating the risk in the investment portfolio. Working with clients to understand their business and track their financial performance against the commitments made to the NWF at the time our investment.
What is the NWF like to work for?
The NWF has a great culture with everyone aligned to the mission and striving to deliver the increased mandate the transition to NWF has bestowed on us. The calibre of people is very high, people want to join to push the mandate and enjoy working on complex problems. The new office is excellent and compares very favourably with other financial institutions.
What were you doing before you joined the Fund, and how has your experience helped with the role you are now doing?
Prior to the NWF I was Head of Portfolio Management at Barclays Corporate Bank. The experience at Barclays is highly transferable around our debt investments although this role is more hands-on given the smaller portfolio and team, something I am really enjoying.
What are your highlights/ proudest achievements since joining the NWF?
I have been fortunate to be around some great transactions including supporting £1bn of guarantees to facilitate the retrofitting of social housing in the UK, and I have recently joined the board of an EV charge point operator to help them deliver their business plan following an investment from the NWF. I am proud of supporting the development of the team. We have grown since I joined 12 months ago, and being involved in the recruitment of new members and the development of others has been rewarding.
What are you looking forward to next at the NWF?
Delivering the against the industrial strategy, the potential for the NWF to take more risk and develop into the new sectors is very exciting.
What would you say to anyone thinking of applying for a role here?
Progress it. It’s a fantastic team with a very exciting, and growing mandate.