Boost for Cornish companies with double appointment at Lloyds Bank

Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking has appointed a new area director and relationship manager to support businesses across Cornwall, as part of its commitment to help Britain prosper.

Gemma Thompson, who has almost 20 years’ experience in banking, steps into the position of area director and will lead an eight-strong team supporting local companies across Cornwall to bolster the local and national economy.

Aaron Hamshire also joins Gemma as relationship manager, having previously been in the role of business manager at business loan company, SWIG Finance

Gemma and her team will ensure businesses with an annual turnover of between £3m and £25m have the financial backing in place to be able to invest in their company’s growth plans.

She will report into David Beaumont, who returns to the role of regional director in the South West as Adam Rainey moves to the position of commercial director, where he will be responsible for supporting more than a million business banking clients nationally.

Having worked in banking for more than a decade, Aaron will report into Gemma and work alongside his colleagues to provide financial support and guidance.

David Beaumont, regional director, said: “Gemma is already a valued member of the team, and as we welcome Aaron, we look forward to continuing to make a significant contribution to businesses across Cornwall in the coming years.

“While it is encouraging to see progress and bring in Aaron’s fresh perspective, it is even better to see them using their experience to work by the side of businesses across the South West, especially at a time when we are among the most confident UK regions, according to the latest Business Barometer.

“Together, the team has all the skills and expertise required to provide meaningful and effective funding and guidance to businesses across Cornwall as they continue to navigate the economic landscape. As they do this, we have pledged to lend £1.5bn to firms across the region to support growth plans in the months and years ahead.”