Paragon Bank has announced two senior appointments to its SME Lending division as part of a wider strategy to accelerate green energy financing and expand support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the UK.
Andy Craggs, a seasoned figure in the asset finance sector with more than 30 years’ experience, will spearhead Paragon’s green energy lending offering. Craggs joins the bank from Premier, a brokerage within the Paragon Banking Group that has transacted over £1 billion in SME finance. He previously served as Managing Director at ECS Group.
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Reporting to John Phillipou, Managing Director of SME Lending and Chair of the Finance & Leasing Association, Craggs will play a “pivotal role” in driving growth in the green energy market. According to Paragon, his “proven track record of supporting SMEs” and his network of energy generators and technology installers will be instrumental in helping businesses transition to net zero.
Emma Gorman also joins the SME Lending team, bringing more than 13 years of experience in asset finance and SME brokering. Her previous roles include positions at Hampshire Trust Bank, Macquarie Bank, and Aldermore Bank, as well as a stint with an asset finance brokerage.
Gorman’s appointment will enhance Paragon’s broker engagement strategy. “Her deep understanding of the broker market and extensive asset finance experience make her a valuable addition to the team,” the bank stated.
The appointments come amid rising demand for tailored SME finance solutions. Last year, Paragon increased lending in its SME division by 7.3%, exceeding £480 million.
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By GlobalDataCommenting on the new hires, Stewart Good, Sales Director of SME Lending at Paragon Bank, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Emma and Andy… Their combined expertise and ambition will be instrumental in driving our growth and delivering tailored financial solutions to our clients.”
