Abbey Business appoints BDM

Steve will take over from Howard Smith who has been promoted to national sales manager.

Abbey Business saw a growth in lending in 2003.

Steve’s financial career began with Barclays where he gained a good all round knowledge of the banking industry. For the past three years he has worked for Independent Commercial Finance where he specialised in the UK’s commercial mortgage market.

Steve said: "I'm very excited about my new role. Abbey Business is a progressive lender who is keen to make a deal work and as a result are a refreshing alternative to many other mortgage lenders. The team offers a good blend of experience and enthusiasm. They cover almost every sector and really understand both the direct customer and the seasoned intermediary, and are happy to advise the newer entrants to the market."

In addition to Steve and Howard, the commercial mortgage broker team at Abbey consists of: Paul Ragbourne, regional business development manager for the South East, Keith Litherland (Midlands) and Tom Hodgson (North).

Another direct result of the success of Abbey’s commercial mortgage team has been the need to open up regional offices to cater for the demand. Andrew Turzynski’s role as senior business manager has been expanded and he is now responsible for the regional offices and teams. The first regional office will be opened in the South West in the latter part of 2004, headed up by Kevin Higgins, with offices in the South East, the North and the Midlands being opened throughout 2005.

Mark Stephens, Head of Commercial Mortgages at Abbey Business, said: "The new structure and regional teams are key to expanding the mortgage business, and will help us increase our focus on the service we provide to customers and improve opportunities for our people."

For further information about commercial mortgages and the full range of Abbey’s business products, please call 0800 328 0210 or visit the web site at www.anbusiness.com.