Paul joins the SME lender – formerly known as LDF – from Lombard, where he established and led a national business development team as head of business development and specialist sectors.

At White Oak, Paul will be responsible for developing a new team of innovative sales personnel who will assist with the continued expansion and growth of the business.

This will involve augmenting the existing field-based sales division and increasing the focus on larger deal sizes within the SME market.

“I’m delighted to join White Oak UK,” said Paul.

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“With uncertainty around Brexit looming, and traditional lenders still demonstrating a more selective approach to SME finance, there’s a growing need for a reliable and trusted alternative in the market. 

“Our aim is to provide great products that fulfil an array of business needs, supported by great service from people who understand their individual requirements.”

White Oak UK provided over £511m in funding to businesses in 2017 and passed the £1bn milestone on its own book this year.

The lender now aims to continue its growth through further investment and the launch of new finance solutions.

“We aim to broaden our funding solutions based on what businesses are telling us they need to grow, rather than what traditional lenders perhaps tell them they need – and that’s game-changing,” added Paul. 

Peter Alderson, managing director at White Oak UK, said Paul had joined at a very exciting time. 

“We’re expanding our reach into the larger end of the SME market, which sits comfortably alongside our current business lines. 

“I feel that Paul’s appointment demonstrates our commitment to that onward development, helping more businesses to access specialist finance solutions.”