New commercial banking director for Metro Bank

News - Banking

Written by Ray Clancy

Friday, 03 December 2010 09:30

Metro Bank, the first High Street bank to open in more than 100 years, today announces the appointment of Mark Price as Managing Director Commercial Banking. Mark brings over 25 years business and commercial banking experience to Metro Bank, joining from Barclays where his last role was Managing Director at Barclays Commercial Bank, South.

Mark Price, Managing Director Commercial Banking at Metro Bank, said: "I am delighted to join Metro Bank - I believe this is the best banking model for business customers. The combination of a focus on customer service, experienced local managers making local lending decisions, and face to face banking available seven days a weeks means commercial customers can finally get the best from their bank."

The move by Metro Bank comes as small businesses continue to suffer from the economic shockwaves reverberating through the UK. Metro Bank's business and commercial banking proposition - which includes lending to local businesses and cash management facilities - will help small businesses based in local communities get the most from their bank.

Metro Bank has four stores in Holborn, Earl's Court, Fulham Broadway in London and Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, and plans a rapid expansion across Greater London over the next 10 years. The focus on local community based banking will mean local managers can make local lending decisions based on the relationship between Metro Bank and the business.

Mark continues: "For too long businesses have been forced to tailor their finances around their bank. But with Metro Bank business customers will receive a service that fits their individual needs, how and when they need it. From Metro Bank they will also receive their first 200 standard every day banking transactions each month absolutely free.

"Businesses, small and large, are the lifeblood of our economy and deserve a better banking experience. We will offer local lending to local businesses - with lending decisions based on their relationship with Metro Bank. Whether the goal is working capital, commercial mortgages or expansion funding, Metro Bank can help businesses in a number of ways."

Metro Bank offers extended opening hours with stores open seven days a week for retail and commercial customers (8am-8pm Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm Saturday, 11am-4pm Sunday), 361 days a year - convenient for many business customers to suit their operating hours.

The Metro Bank Magic Money Machine is also a boon for local cabbies and other small businesses who traditionally take in a great deal of coinage.

Craig Donaldson, Chief Executive Officer at Metro Bank, said: "Metro Bank stands out from other High Street banks by providing unparalleled service, convenience, and value for money. We know that businesses are looking for a new, convenient way of banking with easy to understand products and that's what we will offer. We will deliver a service that exceeds expectations with the customer at the heart of everything we do".