Paragon appoints new MD of motor finance division

Paragon Bank has announced the appointment of Dave Wilson as Managing Director of its Motor Finance division, replacing Julian Rance who is retiring after 28 years with the company.

To help ensure a smooth transition, Julian will remain with Paragon in an advisory role for a 12-month period.

Dave joined Paragon’s Motor Finance division in 2017 and was most recently Head of Business Development. He has a 25-year career in financial services, the majority of which spent in motor finance with brands including Close Brothers, Bank of Scotland and MotoNovo Finance.

Julian Rance joined Paragon in 1997 as Managing Director of the Consumer Finance division, incorporating motor finance. After a short spell working in the Mortgages division, he spearheaded Paragon’s growth in the motor finance market when the bank launched its specialist proposition in 2013.

Under Julian’s stewardship, the motor finance division has built a loan book of over £300 million. He has also overseen its diversification into the electric vehicle and leisure vehicle market, including motorhomes, static caravans and campervans.

Dave Wilson said: “I’m looking forward to building on the excellent foundations that Julian has developed, helping to drive the motor finance division forward.

“We have a brilliant team and excellent relationships with our brokers, dealers and customers, so are in a great position to achieve further growth.”

Julian Rance added: “After more than 30 years in financial services, most of which have been spent in motor finance, I feel the time is now right to step away to spend more time with my family and friends and focus on other personal interests.

“I’m leaving Paragon with a brilliant successor in Dave and a great team to support him in his new role. I will also be on hand to support the transition over the next 12 months.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my career and have made some great friends for life, both in Paragon and the broader industry.”

Nigel Terrington, Paragon Banking Group CEO, said: “Julian leaves with our utmost thanks for nearly three decades of excellent service to Paragon.

“He has built a fantastic business and great foundations for Dave to take forward. We wish him well in his retirement.

“Dave has been with Paragon for seven years and during that time we have been impressed with his drive and passion for his work. We are confident he will be a great success.”