Life at Close Brothers
Hear from some of our employees about their experiences of working at Close Brothers
- Allannah Angell
- Kate Athwal
- Itunu Awodapo
- Abbas Choudry
- Nick Dilworth
- Samuel Dytch
- Keeleigh Field
- Vicky Hope
- Monica Judge
- Charlotte McDermott
- Michael McKinney
- Claire Milling
- Lewis Moore
- Patrick Sommerville-Large
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
Head of Compliance Monitoring for the Bank
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
Two years.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
It has given me the opportunity and the autonomy to implement my vision as to how my function should operate and allowed me the opportunity to grow and monitor risks I had previously not overseen. As such given the variety of risks I now cover, every day I find my role fulfilling, interesting and I am constantly learning. I doubt I will ever hit the glass ceiling working here!
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers?
Autonomous as I feel encouraged and empowered to make and implement my own decisions.
5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?
Recently I have gone through the perimenopause, and I found great comfort and solace with other people at Close Brothers who have also gone through a similar experience. I was deputy Chair of the Menopause Forum where I supported the Bank’s initiative to be recognised externally as a ‘Menopause Friendly’ place to work. I arranged a coffee morning for World Menopause Day and shared my experience in a blog ‘How to love yourself this Valentine’s Day’. Unfortunately, I have had to step down from the forum for a while as my Mum had a major stroke in May last year, and I have had to travel back to her on a regular basis to support with her ongoing care. My team and line manager have been so supportive with me working away, and I continue with my full-time role whilst also supporting my Mum. The Working Carers and Parents Network has been an excellent network for me during this time, where colleagues, who also provide care, come together, and share their experiences on ‘carers calls’. The network is valuable lifeline to me, knowing that I have the support from other colleagues around the Group who understand the additional pressures and stresses of caring for someone.
6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?
I appeared on Countdown in 2008 and won a teapot! Unfortunately, I came up against a contestant in my second game, who went on to become a semi-finalist. If it wasn’t for him, I’m sure I would have become an ‘octochamp’.
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
I am the Head of Propositions at Close Brothers Savings which means I look after our Marketing, Digital and Customer Experience functions.
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
Four years in November.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
Without a doubt it’s the people. There are no ‘bad eggs’ here, everyone goes out of their way to support each other and work collaboratively.
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?
Customer-centric. The customer is always at the heart of what we do.
5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?
I was incredibly fortunate to have been a member of the 2022 cohort of the Bank’s ‘Developing our People’ ("DOP") Programme. DOP is a personal and professional development programme aimed at advancing the management competencies and soft skills required for the future. It was a great opportunity and I learnt so many valuable skills. I particularly enjoyed meeting new people and building my network across the Bank.
6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?
When I was younger, I was a brown belt in Shotokan Karate. Looking back, I’m devastated that I quit before I achieved my black belt, so now (some 20 years later) I have restarted training and have vowed to stick with it until I get my black belt this time!
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
I am an Agile Delivery Manager.
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
Coming up to two years in September.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
The people. It sounds cliché but I work with a fantastic bunch of colleagues that make the work we do worthwhile and enjoyable.
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?
Inclusive. There are diverse groups of people here at Close Brothers and to be able to create a working environment that allows people to be themselves is invaluable.
5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?
Every year, I take my volunteering day to help out at my local church providing Christmas lunches for those who otherwise wouldn’t have a hot meal on Christmas day. The initiative is tagged ‘Christmas lunch on Jesus’. To be able to take part in this without using my paid holidays is amazing. In addition, I am able to donate to a chosen charity tax free thanks to the Payroll Giving benefit.
6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?
I am an amateur runner. I enjoy the exhilarating feeling I get after completing a race, though it is always very tough. The feeling is addictive and makes me want to do it all again. My last race was this month, where I completed the London Landmarks half marathon for the reading charity, Bookmarks. Just don’t ask me about my time, I’m an amateur remember.
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
I am the Business Intelligence and Data Manager for the Close Brothers Motor Finance business. Together, with my team, we help the business make informed decisions using data. Data drives most critical activities, including managing business performance, evaluating risk, engaging with customers, fine-tuning operational processes, meeting regulatory requirements and innovating with products and services.
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
I have worked at Close Brothers for five and a half years.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
Our culture.
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?
Caring – caring for its people, caring for its customers, caring for its partners.
5. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?
I obtained my first GCSE (in the Urdu language) at the age of 11. I was the youngest in the country at the time and may still be!
1. What do you do at Winterflood?
I am the Head of Compliance - Wholesale Markets
2. How long have you been at Winterflood?
I’ve worked at Winterflood for 4.5 years and prior to that I worked in the Internal Audit team at Close Brothers Group for 2 years.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Winterflood?
The People. Everyone is working towards the same goal. There is a lot of transparency and there is very little bureaucracy and politics. People just want to get stuff done in the best way for both our customers and the Company. The size of Winterflood (300 employees) means it is still small enough so you are able to get to know most people relatively quickly.
4. How would you describe the culture at Winterflood, and why?
Transparent, collaborative and meritocratic. Simply, people want to do a good job whether that be the graduate analysts through to Phil at CEO level. People work together to get the job done and there is very little in terms of hierarchy. For example, in the early days of the pandemic, Alex Kerry, one of the Company Directors, was helping with scanning in contract notes.
5. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?
My two children, Grace and Daisy keep me fairly busy and well grounded. I can run a sub 1:30 half marathon, own a Hungarian Vizsla called Peggy and am Chair of the Board of Trustees for a charity called ADD-vance, which helps families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (Pre and post diagnosis).
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
Learning & Development Advisor.
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
A year and a half.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
It’s a fantastic and welcoming place to work, the people here are superb.
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?
Collaborative – everyone works together to achieve the best possible outcomes for both clients and stakeholders.
5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?
I enjoyed making the most of our volunteering support schemes. This year I used my volunteering day for a charity called Camp Simcha which is a charity that helps ill children and supports their families. I’ve also just had a baby boy so am looking forward to making use of the generous shared parental leave policy.
6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?
Outside of work, in the evenings and weekends, I volunteer as a medic for a private ambulance service called Hatzola.
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
I am a Retail Business Manager, working across Premium Finance and Motor Finance (Retail) in our London locations as part of the Business Management function.
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
Over 5 years.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
For me, the best things about working at Close Brothers are the people as I’ve been able to meet and work with so many different people in my time who I’ve learnt so much from, plus the opportunities to develop my career and understanding of different products through internal moves.
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?
I would describe the Close Brothers culture as ‘collaborative’, as people are always willing to help come up with ideas or help you resolve challenges, there’s really no such thing as a silly question or idea here.
5. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself?
In my free time I support my community and help maintain the village as a great place to live, work and visit, as a local Parish Councillor.
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
I am the Sales Manager for Close Brothers Motor Finance Northwest region and look after a team of 5 Account Mangers who are field based.
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
I have worked for Close for 6 and half years.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
The opportunity to further your career through our career pathways. I joined Close Brothers as an Account Manager and was promoted to Sales Manager back in August 2020. This was a job I felt I could never do being a working mum but with the support of a strong leadership team I was able to achieve this.
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?
I was privileged to be invited to help form our ‘Women in Motor’ forum back in 2018. This was to support and attract more diversity into our business along with becoming part of the Automotive 30% club. The success we have had from this has been incredible.
5. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself?
My proudest achievement is my son Joshua who was diagnosed with Autism at 5 years old. He is now 19 and is the kindest, most caring young man you could wish to meet. He attends college and is currently doing work experience at Manchester University along with working in the evening at our local Co-op. It is difficult for any parents raising children whilst trying to further their career but, thanks to the support of my husband and my parents, I have been able to do both.
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
Almost two years following the ASPIRE school leaver programme, I joined the Close Brothers Invoice Finance division in business development to help assist in large corporate transactions in the ABL sector.
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
My journey with Close Brothers began in 2019 when I joined as an ASPIRE student on a two-year rotational programme. Whilst on the programme, I rotated around two different business areas acquiring valuable transferable skills throughout the various divisions. Joining Close Brothers as a school leaver, I was full of enthusiasm and determination, eager to kick-start my career. The support and guidance provided by the team at Close Brothers was invaluable to me as a young individual, navigating my professional journey.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
For me, it’s not just the exposure to different departments, or even the fantastic culture that makes working for Close Brothers such an incredible opportunity, but also the chance to work in a highly recognised FTSE 250 business with limitless career prospects. Every day I am faced with new and exciting challenges that contribute to my continuous learning and skill expansion, whilst being surrounded by such supportive colleagues. What truly sets Close Brothers apart is the presence of colleagues who not only embody the exceptional Close Brothers culture but also provide unwavering support creating an encouraging environment for professional growth.
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?
The word that springs to mind is collegial. Simply due to the people, culture and personal development training provided, I am now far more confident than at the outset of my career. Entering the corporate world after completing formal education can be an overwhelming experience, especially considering the shift in pace and the significant responsibilities handed over from day one. Nevertheless, I can confidently say that the people and the relationships fostered here are one of the main things that stand out for me. I would also go as far to say that the nurturing family-like atmosphere has played a pivotal role in my career progression to date. I have always felt comfortable to take the lead on projects yet curious enough to learn and grow, a combination I highly appreciate in a workplace.
5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?
The ASPIRE programme was the perfect alternative to university for me. The programme provided me with the ability to earn a salary and gain a qualification whilst building experience across different divisions in a merchant banking group, which I found to be an incredible opportunity. Most people just assume that you will be doing the small tasks, but they are very much mistaken. The ASPIRE programme has a stellar reputation throughout the business which goes a long way; you are seen as being a valuable asset, capable of handling any task. One highlight of the programme is the exposure to senior figures within the bank, who are keen on nurturing development and offering remarkable opportunities. To anyone looking to apply for the ASPIRE programme, my first piece of advice would be ‘go for it’! If you are willing to work hard you will gain priceless knowledge and experience that will benefit your future career.
I'm also an active member of the Gender Balance Committee at Close Brothers, involved in organising various events such as International Women's Day and Menopause Day initiatives. This has provided me with invaluable experience as a committee member and widespread exposure to senior figures within the organisation, which I deeply appreciate as I embark on my career journey. Additionally, I take pride in having initiated various Young Professional programmes at Close Brothers, fostering connections among emerging professionals, from lawyers to accountants, to brokers and advisors, and boosting their network and confidence.
Lastly, I've participated in numerous charitable initiatives, including a recent 34km hike along the Jurassic coast, an endeavour that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Despite not expecting to be in so much pain by the end of it, I take immense pride in completing the challenge and contributing to a worthy cause thanks to the brilliant initiatives at Close Brothers with almost something for everyone.
6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?
Outside of work I am a keen sportswoman and enjoy running and cycling through the countryside. I have recently started to learn how to play golf, and I hope to improve my game so that I can mix business and pleasure in the future!
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
Client Executive.
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
18 months.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
The people and the culture. There is always a great buzz and sense of fun in the office.
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?
Social.
5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?
My personal experience has been great! My manager is always looking for ways to try and help with my development and offering courses and training sessions where appropriate to help with this.
I find also that there is always a great deal going on from a social aspect and this is also with other businesses who we work closely with, so this is a great way to network and make connections which I always enjoy.
I foresee a long and happy career at Close Brothers.
6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?
I have American citizenship so I'm able to vote in US elections and will be doing so later on this year.
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
I’m the Business Manager for Close Brothers Premium Finance. Day-to-day I’m responsible for supporting the Managing Director, driving strategic initiatives, and ensuring the Premium Exco are kept on track.
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
10 years and 4 months – it’s flown by!
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
It’s big but small! – Over the past decade I’ve worked in a variety of roles across Motor, Group, and Premium. Throughout that time, I’ve been given the platform and support from managers and colleagues to pursue my interests and progress down different career paths.
The size of the organisation means there’s plenty of opportunities to develop and grow, which was fantastic for me when I was kick-starting my career. But the individual businesses themselves often have a “small company/family” feel meaning you can really make your mark.
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers?
Supportive.
5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?
I’m fortunate that across all my time here, I’ve been greatly supported by colleagues at all levels. A series of brilliant managers have given me the chances to develop and grow, supporting my participation on initiatives such as the Developing Our People programme, professional qualifications, and giving me the platform to progress my career.
I was able to take a career break when I felt I needed an opportunity to reset and refresh myself, when my mother sadly passed away I was given all the time and support necessary to process and grieve, and when the time came to make the next step in my career, my manager championed me.
Company culture is something that’s really important to me; if the people and culture didn’t fit my values, I wouldn’t have stayed as long as I have. I love that Close Brothers has such a broad range of DE&I initiatives available to help get involved and drive the kind of culture I want to be a part of - I’m currently our Strategy and Planning lead for the People Of Premium (POP) – Premium’s Colleague forum, and in the past have been part of Motor’s Colleague Forum, and the Group Ethnic Diversity committee.
6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?
I’m currently working my way through my “30’s bucket list” – there’s plenty more things to tick off, but so far, I’ve managed to climb Kilimanjaro, finally completed a Rubix cube, tried my hand at surfing, and even learnt to knit a scarf!
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
I currently work as an Account Manager in our Motor Division.
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
I have worked with Close Brothers Motor Finance just short of three years.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
The culture.
The colleague first approach really creates a supportive environment where you are encouraged to thrive and excel within your professional career, while at the same time there is a huge emphasis placed on maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This holistic approach to well-being makes me feel valued and gives me an overall sense of satisfaction within work and life.
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?
Supportive.
In my short tenure so far, I have consistently felt supported at every turn. From my onboarding and training, to being equipped with the tools and insights to succeed in my role, and even during personal milestones with maternity leave, I was provided with unwavering support throughout.
5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?
I am deeply grateful for the support provided at the onset of my career journey, especially during a pivotal moment when I discovered I was pregnant. Close Brothers demonstrated a commendable commitment to inclusivity and support, ensuring that my professional trajectory remained uninterrupted despite the personal milestone. This invaluable support illustrates Close Brothers' dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace culture that prioritises the well-being and success of its employees at every stage of their journey.
Although my tenure is relatively short, I've been encouraged in my ambition for career growth and personal development. Joining the Women in Motor Forum, one of the exco sponsored networks, was particularly impactful for me. Their mission to drive change in the automotive industry and promote female inclusion resonated with me from the very beginning. Being part of this initiative not only felt fulfilling but also provided invaluable opportunities for networking, collaborating with stakeholders, and connecting with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. Close Brothers genuinely encourages and empowers its employees to pursue enriching experiences like this.
6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?
Being a mum will forever be one of my proudest achievements. However, before the parent chapter of my life I was a performer in fire breathing and dance which is a little something different from the normal nine to five.
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
I am an Area Sales Manager in the Sales Team of the Asset Finance Transport Division. I am home based but I am mainly out on the road seeing and managing clients, financing any vehicle requirements that clients may have for their businesses.
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
I have worked at Close Brothers for 7 and ½ years and started on the Close Brothers Aspire Apprenticeship Programme.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
Autonomy and the people – no matter what role you are in, your say and your job role are always appreciated and valued.
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?
Togetherness – I feel that everyone understands each other’s part in the business regardless of department or job title and is happy to assist you when required to help you in your role.
5. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself?
Interesting fact is that I am distantly related to 1966 World Cup Winner Bobby Moore.
1. What do you do at Close Brothers?
I look after the long term strategy of our Invoice Finance business, while supporting with key projects across the broader Commercial division.
2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?
Coming up to 10 years this September.
3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
Close Brothers sometimes feels like a ‘Goldilocks’ bank. Large enough that your day to day work can feel varied and challenging, but not so huge that you feel anonymous or lost within a vast organisation.
4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?
Meritocratic. Hard work and determination are really recognised within Close Brothers. Individuals are given opportunities to excel in their field, with those that do able to progress in their careers across the Group.
5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?
Development pathways within Close Brothers are truly second to none, with various opportunities regardless of where you are in your career. I joined Close Brothers on its graduate scheme in 2014, which provided a fantastic introduction to the world of financial services and the various facets of the Group. Later on in my career, I was also able to be a part of the Bank’s ACE leadership programme which allowed me to develop a broad range of skills across key functions of the Bank. In addition to these more structured programmes, the Bank has also allowed me to undertake further external qualifications through the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment, while also providing shorter internal workshops aimed to improve my effectiveness within my day-to-day role.
5. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself?
I am a keen Parkrun tourist and enjoy travelling at weekends to tick off new runs in my local area. Using Close Brothers’ volunteering scheme, I have also got involved with helping to support my local Parkrun each weekend, while also helping with the creation of a new run in Battersea Park.
