Paul Edwards appointed to lead Lombard

NatWest Group has today announced that Paul Edwards has been appointed to lead the banking group’s asset finance business, Lombard, together with specialist businesses providing working capital solutions.

Paul has been at NatWest for 12 years and has held a number of roles in that time, most recently leading the bank’s commercial mid-market business in the South West and Wales. For Lombard he succeeds Ian Isaac, who is retiring after a decade as Managing Director at the end of September.

 Andy Gray, Managing Director of Commercial Mid-Market at NatWest Group, said: “I’m delighted to appoint Paul Edwards to lead Lombard and Specialist Businesses. Paul will play a crucial role in driving forward our growth plans, leveraging the significant £20 million investment we have made into our Trade transformation programme and supporting customers to access solutions across transaction banking and invoice financing. With a background in a variety of sales and functional leadership roles, Paul brings a wealth of experience and skills to the role.

“Lombard has gone from strength to strength in the past decade, nearly doubling its balance sheet to £15 billion and securing consistently high levels of customer satisfaction. Ian has shown true passion for the sector and has been integral to Lombard’s success – for this I thank him and wish him well in his retirement.”

Paul Edwards, Managing Director of Lombard and Specialist Businesses, said: “It’s a privilege to assume the role of Managing Director of Lombard and Specialist Businesses as I truly believe these businesses provide an essential service for our customers. By providing funds for the acquisition of key assets and ensuring the most effective use of working capital we are enabling customers to achieve their growth ambitions. I look forward to working to build on the exceptional progress made, so we can continue to deliver for our customers and stakeholders.”

Ian Isaac was recently awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Asset Finance Connect awards, in recognition of his support to Lombard, his considerable contribution to the asset finance industry and his outstanding commitment to people – customers, colleagues and industry professionals alike.

Ian Isaac said: “Passing over the leadership to Paul fills me with huge pride for Lombard and the progress it has made as a business over the past decade. Paul deeply understands Lombard’s business, shares my passion for supporting our customers, and sees the opportunities to further reinforce and grow our presence in the market.”