Close Finance has announced two key new appointments reinforcing their commitment to responsible lending. The new positions will also allow the company to broaden their Channel Island portfolio of services and drive future business growth.

Richard Elliott joins the team as the new Head of Lending responsible for the Guernsey lending team.  With more than a decade of experience working in the island’s financial services sector, his role includes identifying new opportunities and customers, as well as looking for ways to improve the business offering to local clients.

Commenting on his new appointment, Richard said:

“Close Finance has developed a genuine reputation for responsible lending to both individuals and businesses in the Channel Islands.  I’m looking forward to the challenge of working for a business with an appetite to expand the products it offers, and excited about driving new initiatives to help Close Finance achieve its strategic goals”.

Anamaria Le Verdier joins the business in Jersey as Credit Risk Manager.  After graduating with a degree in economics specialising in banking and finance, Anamaria has spent the past eight years working in the insurance sector and is delighted with her new role.

“I enjoy working in fast-paced environments and have a passion for delivering exceptional service, so I’m really looking forward to the challenge of forging a career with such a long-established local lending business”, she said.

Managing Director Kevin Allen said the new appointments reflect Close Finance’s commitment to recruit talented individuals who will strengthen the business and support their aspirations for growth.

Welcoming Richard and Anamaria to Close, he said:

“Given Richard’s skills and experience, I’ve every confidence he’ll drive business growth in Guernsey, particularly in the commercial sector.  Anamaria is an experienced underwriter and we will benefit from her transferable skills as well as taking responsibility for the credit risk management of our lending book.”