Paragon strengthens SME lending vendor team

Paragon Bank has underlined its ambition to expand its SME Lending division with the appointment of two new Business Development Managers (BDMs), reinforcing its commitment to growing both its Direct and Vendor propositions.

Andrew Kenny joins the FTSE 250 bank to develop its direct proposition within the HGV, trailer and tanker sector, while Joshua Atkinson takes on the role of BDM for the North East region, supporting vendors and SMEs across one of the UK’s most dynamic growth areas.

Andrew Kenny brings over 13 years of experience in financial services to the role, having held positions at Close Brothers, Dawson Group, Lombard, Star Asset Finance and NatWest.

Most recently, he served as National Accounts Sales Manager in Close Brothers’ Asset Finance and Leasing division.

Joshua Atkinson transitions from Bluestone Leasing, where he spent more than eight years as Regional Account Manager.

Before entering the finance industry, he began his career as a professional rugby league player, representing Castleford Tigers, Queanbeyan Kangaroos and Newcastle Thunder, before moving into sales and relationship management roles.

Terry Lloyd, Paragon Bank’s Head of Vendor, said the appointments reflect the bank’s strong growth agenda: “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 Kenny said he was looking forward to contributing to Paragon’s continued success: “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 Atkinson added that he sees significant potential in his region: “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.”