Life at Close Brothers

Hannah Worthington

1. What do you do at Close Brothers?

Executive Assistant for MD for Wholesale Finance

2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

6 months

3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

The people and the culture.

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers?

Supportive. There are people in our office that have come from career backgrounds and roles very different to what they are working in now, but because they were seen as a great fit for the role due to their personal skills and adaptability, they have been given a chance and supported through their role to succeed in what they now do.

5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?

I have only been here for a few months, so I’m still new to the company, but in my experience, everyone has been welcoming and always willing to help. Even people in other departments if I have wanted to learn more about what they do, have taken the time to teach me and have always gone above and beyond. It felt like I had worked here forever almost immediately due to the openness and kindness everyone has shown, not just in my own office but in other offices that I have visited too.

6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?

My proudest achievement is adopting my rescue dog, Milo, he was originally a street dog from Romania, he’s around 11/12 now and came with some challenges to begin with, but the best decision I’ve ever made, and it makes me happy every day seeing how settled and happy he is in his new home.

Bethie Wiseman

1. What do you do at Close Brothers?

I work as a Marketing Executive in the Marketing team at Close Brothers Motor Finance.

2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

I’ve been with Close Brothers Motor Finance for eight years.

3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

The best thing about working at Close Brothers is undoubtedly the culture.

The group is committed to being diverse and inclusive so that all colleagues can bring their true authentic selves to work. This is reinforced in the many networks that are available for colleagues to follow, such as those for accessibility, mental wellbeing, LGBTQ+ and much more.

At Close Brothers Motor Finance specifically, there are Women in Motor and Colleague Engagement forums, for which I’m a proud member of. They improve colleague experience by focusing on areas such as diversity and inclusion, wellbeing, values, charity, and community and environment.

Transforming a meeting room into a multi-purpose space so colleagues have a quiet and private area to reflect is one example of how the business is focused on wellbeing. Food vans that visit offices each month, lunches that award long-serving colleagues, a week dedicated to fundraising for charity partners, and volunteering schemes, are other ways that Close Brothers demonstrates its commitment to colleagues. It’s really fantastic to be part of an organisation that genuinely cares, and I certainly enjoy getting involved in all of the activities.

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers?

Inclusive. Everything the business does is with colleagues in mind, and there’s a real focus on making Close Brothers a great place to work for everyone.

Network-lead events that celebrate diversity and inclusion initiatives, and workshops that improve colleague understanding are further ways that demonstrate how the business strives to be an inclusive employer of choice.

5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?

I’ve been a CSR representative (or Charity Champion) since starting with the business, and I also sit on the Charity working group of our Colleague Engagement Forum. As a result, I have the opportunity to help plan a lot of our charity events that take place in our Head Office, and I play a part in encouraging other colleagues to get involved. Charity Week, Red Nose Day, Mission Christmas are just some of the fundraising events that take place.

Because of my role in Marketing, I also support other working groups and forums, by helping to plan and promote content externally.

6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?

I love yoga, and I’ve recently started pilates again. I try to do as many sessions as I can, including some at home - that’s if my dog allows and doesn’t try to get involved!

Will Simpson

1. What do you do at Close Brothers?

I am the National Strategic Account Manager for Close Brothers Premium Finance. I work with a select group of large accounts managing their relationship, performance and growth strategy.

2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

I originally joined Close Brothers in May 2016 as Field Sales Manager for Scotland and Northern Ireland. Due to a family bereavement, I left the business for six months in June 2023 to help support my dad. I rejoined Close Brothers in January 2024 in my current role.

3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

When you need advice, help or encouragement to try something it is always there.

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?

The business is concerned about doing it right and ensuring everyone is part of that no matter your background.

5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?

I am a coach of my son’s football team (since 2007) and have been supported by Close Brothers matching scheme. This has helped provide the team with tracksuit bottoms for training during the winter months.

6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?

I am a Chartered Insurance Practitioner.

Alison Shorten

1. What do you do at Close Brothers?

I am Telephony Team Leader for Close Brothers Motor Finance (Ireland).

2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

Three years in June 2025.

3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

The opportunities to grow as an individual and as a professional, there are always avenues to go down in terms of new courses, or career development. The ‘One Team’ atmosphere is not only within the wider business, but it can be seen around each team in every department, a sense of community and mutual respect.

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?

Recognised. Hard work and commitment are really recognised within Close Brothers. All colleagues are given opportunities to excel in their field and nurtured to progress and succeed in their long-term goals.

5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?

I joined the Intergenerational Network in 2024. This network speaks to my own values of unlocking the collective wisdom of generations to drive innovation, success, and growth across Close Brothers.

6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?

I enjoy running and completed my second marathon last year!

Lewis Moore

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.

Abbey Mitchell

1. What do you do at Close Brothers?

Account Manager for Close Brothers Motor Finance covering North Wales, Shropshire and Chester.

2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

9 years

3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

I think the way you’re treated is very important within a business. I feel that Close Brothers are very colleague focused and have been very supportive through events in my time here.

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?

There are many experiences I would love to share. I wanted to progress from just doing my day job by taking on more responsibilities. I set myself the goal of becoming a ‘Key Player Account Manager’, which, with the help and support of my Sales Manager and colleagues, I achieved. I had a several things that I had to do, and I felt fully supported and guided through this.

I also came back from maternity leave last May after 9 months off. As you can imagine, I was super anxious to come back, but the return-to-work phase was really well handled. I felt really at ease and that coming back to work was not as bad as I thought it was going to be. Being able to come back the way I did just made me want to work harder and get back to it straight away!

6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?

Since I was in school, I had always wanted to become a police officer and nothing else. My goal in life was to complete my little dream. Most people dream of becoming rich and famous, but I wanted to be a police officer. At the age of 18, after college, I got accepted to become a Special Constable for Merseyside police – 0971. I did this voluntarily for 5 years, and I absolutely loved every single minute of it. I made such fabulous friends along the way and gained so much experience, not only job related but also personally. You see things you never thought you would, and I’m really proud of how I dealt with those situations. I know it’s made me the person I am today. One thing I realised is I didn’t want to do this job, when I had children. Whilst working for the police, a police officer colleague got killed on duty and he left behind his wife and 2 young children. No matter what your job is, I knew that being a mother is more important than a risky job. After many years of loving the role and working part time, I realised it was time to get a full time job and start saving for a house. The tears streamed down my cheeks as I handed over my uniform and badge and had to close the door on that chapter of my life.

Claire Milling

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.

Michael McKinney

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!

Charlotte McDermott

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.

Saurabh Mathur

1. What do you do at Close Brothers?

In Credit Risk as Capital and Impairment Manager - Retail.

2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

Almost two years.

3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

People, empathy, collaboration and accountability.

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?

Transparent, welcoming and inclusive. From the senior leadership to an analyst, everyone welcomes anyone and everyone and is very inclusive of all people. Hierarchy is very transparent and I’ve hardly seen anything hidden behind the doors.

5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?

I like how people are recognised for the work and efforts they do and make in the job and not only the line managers but also the leadership is aware of the efforts put in to solve the issues and deliver great outcomes.

I’ve been recognised and won twice – Risk Champion award as individual and with team respectively but that’s driven from the guidance from the leadership and collaboration within different teams. I also admire the accountability stemmed within everyone which helps to drive success inside and outside Close Brothers.

Apart from the role, I’ve been really impressed with the emphasis given on the work-life balance and all the support provided in every way to have good wellbeing in and out of the office.

5. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?

I wrote a Non-fiction book (Crime Thriller) almost 10 years ago which was published.

Isabel MacDonald

1. What do you do at Close Brothers?

Client Manager North, managing a portfolio of clients based in Scotland. Responsible for Risk, Relationship and Income Generation as well as New Business Development.

2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

5 years

3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

I enjoy the culture within Close Brothers, I feel part of something good. People are the driving force to this. I also enjoy working with my clients, without whom I wouldn’t be required.

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?

Rewarding - staff are recognised when they go the extra mile, when they contribute even a little beyond expectation. This makes you feel valued which is important. Its also a great to be able to nominate colleagues for ‘Kudos’ awards resulting from their positive contribution.

5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?

When I started working at Close Brothers, I was the only client manager covering Scotland, working alongside the local RSD. We managed to build the portfolio in Scotland considerably, which led to another Client Manager position being opened. There are now two of us now in Scotland, as well as an additional RSD which is something I am proud of.

Last year I was nominated for the ‘Employee Recognition Awards’ which was an amazing thing to be part of and attending the award ceremony in London.

In May 2021 my mum was diagnosed with terminal cancer, and the support I received from my Line Manager and wider team was quite something. My manager gave me the space I needed to spend quality time with my mum whilst I came to terms with the situation. My mum passed away 4 weeks after diagnosis. I will always have considerable gratitude for how my manager approached this situation with me, and the support provided.

6. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?

I love to laugh and have fun, which can lead to the odd fall here and there. My husband is always nervous when I’m going to events as I am a little accident prone. On ‘more than one’ occasion I’ve had to attend A & E, the results - one broken shoulder, one badly bruised Coccyx (tailbone), not to mention a broken ankle from a fall whilst walking the dogs – oops.

Born in June, I’m a Cancerian woman, said to be sensitive, caring, loving, and loyal, however described as a tender Crab, which may resonate with my children.

I am the proud mum to two amazing kids. At 22yrs (girl) and 18yrs (boy), I guess they are not really kids anymore. I also have two beautiful Greyhound dogs. They say owners often resemble their dogs, who ‘Nose’ maybe this is true.

Ryan Kerlin

1. What do you do at Close Brothers?

I am the Head of Process for our Asset Finance business. My team have responsibility for establishing standards, implementing our process framework and leading process improvement initiatives.

2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

14 years.

3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

The best bit about working at Close Brothers is the people. We are fortunate to have some of the most committed, supportive and talented individuals in the industry. Their passion, and camaraderie make Close Brothers a fantastic place to work.

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?

Close Brothers has a culture that is both professional and personable. It is a place where relationships matter, people are approachable and willing to help. This creates an environment where you feel valued, and you can move forward with confidence.

5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?

Over my 14 years at Close Brothers, like any career I have had plenty of trials and tribulations. Firstly, Close Brothers provided me with an opportunity to build a career in the asset finance industry at a time when opportunities were limited. Secondly, Close Brothers has developed my capabilities by enabling me to progress my career and through pushing me to act as lead on work I had no previous experience of. Thirdly, and most importantly when the need calls, I have always been told to put family and health first.

5. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?

I have been blessed with good fortune through my entire life and have a family who are supportive and carry me throughout. My girls do things every day that make me proud and show me that anything possible if you try.

As an interesting fact, I swam competitively growing up.

Vicky Hope

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.

Vicky Cousins

1. What do you do at Close Brothers?

I’m an Operational Excellence Analyst

2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

I have worked for Close Brothers for 18 years.

3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

The people are the best thing about working here.

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?

My career has progressed through various roles within Operations, from underwriting to assisting with a data migration. I’m currently enrolled on a level 4 apprenticeship in data analysis. I was one of the inaugural vision & values champions and was proud to win an employee of the month award. It’s a challenge balancing a full-time job with two young children. I was very grateful that my line manager supported my request to adjust my hours to accommodate the afternoon school run.

5. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?

I’m an advocate of growth mindset. Last year, I was very proud to complete the Contrarian Grand Slam (4 x 100 mile running races within 6 months). This achievement gave me the confidence to sign up for an apprenticeship.

Abbas Choudry

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!

Itunu Awodapo

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.

Kate Athwal

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!

Matt Allen

1. What do you do at Close Brothers?

I am a Senior Underwriter for Close Brothers Motor Finance. I work from our Alexander Hub based in Stoke On Trent.

2. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

I am in my twentieth year.

3. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

The culture is very colleague based, I personally don’t feel like a number and feel that in Close Brothers Motor Finance the exco actually know people, the whole group has great leadership.

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers, and why?

I would describe the culture as professional but not over corporate, a relaxed atmosphere where people are looked after and can have their own say. In fact we are encouraged to do so through regular employee opinion surveys.

5. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?

Having been here for a long time, I have seen lots of change and for the better, having been through recessions, changing markets and seeing the need to adapt. I am currently a Senior Underwriter which progressed from an Underwriter. When the business restructured I was handed the chance to step up to one of the Senior roles in which I hold the highest 60k mandate for my role. I also collaborate with our Close Brothers Commercial Finance business in the Channel Islands, and use my knowledge and skills in underwriting to assist them.

I am part of the colleague forum and an ally for Women in Motor. I regularly take part in charity week where the company matches donations.

5. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?

I am a massive fan of Chelsea FC. Being a northerner I have to say all the time, I always have been since eight years old and haven’t jumped on the bandwagon of the Abramovich era!

Nicole Corfield

1. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

I have been at Close Brothers for six and a half years. I joined in February 2019 as the Risk Director for the Premium Finance business. I later moved into a credit leadership role with responsibility for collections and recoveries, before joining the Commercial Executive Committee in my current role in November 2024.

2. What do you do at Close Brothers?

As Managing Director for Customer Support and Collections, I lead the strategic direction and operational delivery of customer service and collections teams in the Asset Finance division. My role focuses on ensuring our customers in financial difficulty receive appropriate support while maintaining responsible and effective collections practices.

3. What do you think is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

The people! There’s a genuine sense of teamwork and shared purpose across the organisation. Everyone is committed to doing the right thing for our customers and supporting each other to succeed.

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers?

Supportive. Whether it’s professional development, cross-team collaboration, or day-to-day challenges, there’s a strong culture of helping one another and working together to achieve shared goals.

5. How has your working arrangement at Close Brothers enabled you to maintain a work-life balance?

I work four days a week (usually Monday to Thursday) which enables me to use Fridays for my second full time role of running a household with two working parents and two busy children. I had a part-time contract at my previous employer and the fact that this didn’t present an issue to Close Brothers was one of the many reasons behind the decision to move.

6. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?

As well as the opportunity to progress from a career perspective, Close Brothers has given me the opportunity to be involved with our diversity and inclusion and CSR initiatives. I’m a member of our MenoForum and Gender Balance Network and I volunteer through our corporate partnership with Bookmark, a charity that helps children develop reading skills, something I’m passionate about.

7. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself, something outside of work or a proud achievement?

Honestly, my proudest achievement is spinning the plates of work/life balance and only occasionally dropping one!

Robbie Anderson

1. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

Just over four years.

2. What do you do at Close Brothers?

I am the Balance Sheet Management Director. This means that I am responsible for ensuring the bank has enough money to fulfil its business plans and for funding the bank’s asset business.

3. What do you think is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

The culture. I worked at several large multinational banks before coming to Close Brothers and I have found the culture here a breath of fresh air. Two big points are that the people here are very collaborative and actively try to help you if they can, and people at all levels get to deal with senior managers frequently and understand how they think and what they are trying to achieve, helping people grow and be more commercial.

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers?

Inclusive.

5. How has your working arrangement at Close Brothers enabled you to maintain a work-life balance?

I work at Close Brothers three days a week and this means I can pursue a few outside interests, such as writing exams for a professional body or trying to improve my snooker. Colleagues respect my working hours within my agreed days and there is no expectation to dial into meetings or complete work on days I am off. The organisation has been very accommodating so that key meetings are scheduled around my working pattern so that I am able to be fully involved in strategy and leadership.

6. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?

I have really enjoyed my time here, there has been a great mix of working collaboratively with other teams across the bank to solve problems that has kept me interested and engaged, and working closely with my team and helping them grow in their roles and careers.

7. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself, something outside of work or a proud achievement?

I have had a lifelong love of learning and one thing working part time has allowed me to do is to complete a Master’s degree in Classical Studies which I look forward to travelling more to put into use!

Kalaiarassi Dhamodaran

1. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

I started working at Close Brothers in June 2024.

2. What do you do at Close Brothers?

I am a part-time Customer Service advisor at the Broker Solutions office in Southampton. This is a job-sharing role. I work three days a week Wednesday to Friday.

3. What do you think is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to work at Close Brothers. From the beginning, my colleagues have been welcoming, warm, friendly and supportive, which made a big difference in helping me to settle in. My managers and directors are supportive with regular feedback and encouragement to my personal development and career growth.

My team is very flexible with my work timings and hybrid working arrangements. This has made a significant difference to my work performance and personal life. It allows me to manage my responsibilities effectively and lead a stressless life without having to compromise either. This work environment makes a big difference, not just in how we work, but in how we feel coming to work every day.

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers?

Working at Close Brothers has given me more than just a job. It has given me a supportive environment where I can grow professionally while meeting my family needs. My colleagues are warm, friendly, encouraging and collaborative. We value open communication and have a strong sense of mutual respect. I’m proud to be part of a team that uplifts and supports each other every day.

5. How has your working arrangement at Close Brothers enabled you to maintain a work-life balance?

The job-sharing arrangement in my customer service role has been a game-changer for me. It has allowed me to strike a healthy balance between my professional and personal life. Most importantly, it has given me the flexibility to be there for my daughter, supporting her school runs, parents’ meetings, extra lessons, hospital appointments and being present for her therapy sessions. Having this has also created space for me to focus on my own personal growth and career development. I feel more present, more productive, and more fulfilled in both roles: as a parent and as a professional.

6. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?

As someone who is new to the finance sector, I was benefited by online learning academy courses and in-person trainings. These resources and trainings are incredibly valuable, which helped me build confidence in my role and develop a stronger understanding of the business much faster than I expected.

I can proudly say that my works are acknowledged and appreciated by my colleagues. I am receiving constructive feedback, which aids to improve my performance. I feel very encouraged and motivated by my managers and directors to upskill myself, take on new challenges and aim for long-term progression within the company.

7. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?

Outside of work, I am a dedicated mother and love spending time supporting my daughter through her education and therapy journey. To support her during Brownies sessions I recently completed a volunteering course with Girlguiding. I now assist Brownies with their weekly term-time sessions, short trips and camps. It is incredibly rewarding to support and mentor young girls as they build confidence, learn new skills, and have fun in a safe, empowering environment.

Annabelle Senior

1. How long have you been at Close Brothers?

I started originally full time in March 2023. I then had a baby and have been doing my job share since returning in June 2025.

2. What do you do at Close Brothers?

I am a Customer Service Advisor.

3. What do you think is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?

The people I work with make every day a lot nicer!

4. What word would you use to describe the culture at Close Brothers?

Flexible.

5. How has your working arrangement at Close Brothers enabled you to maintain a work-life balance?

It means I have not had to put my 1-year-old into nursery, and it has allowed me to work at home when needed to fit in with my family life.

6. What would you like to share about your personal experience of working for Close Brothers?

I have always enjoyed working with my team. We have created a great bond which allows us to thrive as a team.

7. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself i.e. something outside of work or a proud achievement?

My proudest achievement is always my daughter. She is incredibly smart and polite, a very happy little girl. She is what motivates me every day.