What do you do at Allica and what does a typical day look like?
I'm a business development manager at Allica Bank, supporting a portfolio of asset finance brokers who help businesses access funding. Their clients require finance for a wide range of assets, from HGVs and coaches to softer assets such as office fit-outs and solar panels.
A typical day involves working closely with brokers to understand their clients' requirements, helping structure finance solutions, and guiding applications through the approval process. Brokers introduce opportunities to us, and we work to provide the right funding solution, subject to credit approval.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day can vary depending on the time of the month. Month-end is generally the busiest period, with a focus on getting deals paid out, but my day-to-day responsibilities include:
- Meeting brokers face-to-face and strengthening relationships
- Following up on deals that are progressing through the pipeline
- Reviewing and responding to new enquiries
- Discussing our lending appetite and the types of assets we can fund
Ultimately, my role is centred around building strong broker relationships, supporting their clients' funding needs, and delivering against business targets.
How did you get into asset finance, was it something you always wanted to do?
I've worked in banking for around 12 years, starting my career in retail banking in a sales-focused role before moving into relationship management within the SME sector.
After relocating to the UK, I returned to retail banking to re-establish myself in the industry. However, I quickly realised that I wanted to get back into SME lending, which ultimately led me to Allica.
I initially joined Allica's asset finance team in an operations role and have now been with the bank for almost four years. During that time, I've developed a real passion for asset finance. It's a fast-paced, dynamic sector where no two deals are the same, and there's always something new to learn. The variety of businesses, assets and funding requirements we encounter keeps the role interesting and continues to challenge me every day.
What was your first job?
My first job was as a waiter while I was still at school. From there, I moved into a prosthetics and orthotics workshop, where I helped manufacture artificial limbs, braces and support devices.
I then joined a gear manufacturing company, working in a hands-on production environment and operating industrial machinery. Those roles gave me valuable experience and a strong appreciation for technical and manufacturing processes.
When my daughter was born, I started thinking more seriously about long-term career opportunities and stability. My mother worked in banking, which inspired me to explore the industry. I made the move into banking and have remained there ever since, building a career that has taken me from retail banking into SME lending and, ultimately, asset finance.
If you weren't working in finance, what would you be doing?
If I could choose anything, I’d probably be a vet. Ideally something more outdoors-focused, like a wildlife vet.
I’ve always had a passion for animals and being outdoors, so that would be a natural fit.
What’s your favourite thing about working at Allica?
It’s the pace and variety. There’s always something going on, and I enjoy the challenge of having clear targets to work towards.
I also like the people side of my role. I get to meet brokers, speak to different teams internally, and deal with a wide range of scenarios day-to-day. There are a lot of moving parts, which keeps things interesting.
It’s definitely not a role or company where you feel stuck doing the same thing every day.
What’s your go to way to unwind in your free time?
I spend a lot of time with my family – my daughter, my wife, and our dog.
I also enjoy anything that gets me outdoors and keeps me active, like: fishing, kickboxing, and running.
What’s the most interesting deal you’ve worked on?
Some of my most memorable deals have been around fit-outs. Since joining the team, that’s been a newer addition to our appetite, so it’s been exciting to be involved early on.
I’ve worked on a number of these deals now, mainly for restaurants and corner shops, and they’re always interesting because of the range of items involved. Every deal tends to look slightly different and I love the variety that comes with that.
What do you enjoy most about working with the asset finance team?
Our team is very supportive. Everyone’s approachable and willing to help. When I moved from operations into sales, I got a lot of support early on – particularly from my manager at the time. No question was too small and that really helped build a strong foundation.
That same attitude carries across the team – people are open, collaborative, and always happy to share knowledge. We’re all working towards the same goal and it feels that way.
When working with brokers, what does the perfect application look like to you?
At its core, a strong asset finance proposal is built around a credible customer profile. Typically, we look for:
- A profitable and well-managed business
- A strong balance sheet and financial position
- A minimum of two years' trading history
- A clean credit profile
That said, we take a pragmatic and flexible approach to lending. Every case is considered on its own merits. For example, a newer business may still be a strong proposition if there is additional support from a guarantor, or if an alternative deal structure is more appropriate for the circumstances.
From a broker's perspective, it is also important to provide:
- A clear rationale for the purchase and how it supports the business
- Comprehensive asset information, including the make, model, age and condition
Ultimately, the more complete and transparent the information provided, the easier it is for us to assess the opportunity and identify the most suitable funding solution.
What is a best piece of career advice for someone wanting to get into a similar role?
Push yourself and don’t give up.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions – even if they seem small or obvious. That’s how you learn.
And be prepared to put the work in. Like anything, it takes time and consistency to build experience and confidence.
What’s been your favourite thing about living in the UK compared to South Africa?
One of the things we’ve really enjoyed since moving to the UK is exploring Wales. We try to visit once or twice a year as a family, it’s become a bit of a tradition.
We usually go to see the puffins, which is always a highlight. It’s a nice way to switch off and spend time outdoors.
