Introduction

"We are delighted to be expanding our approach to the Acquisition Finance market by developing a national platform for the UK. Historically we have focused on developing some strong regional teams, particularly in our heartland areas, but we are now enhancing this strong regional capability to focus on this sector across the UK.

This national approach, through dedicated specialist teams based regionally, will ensure that we build a focused and consistent approach to the market. This focus coupled with our commitment to real relationship banking and our ability to structure deals via an integrated model will give us a truly differentiated approach to existing clients, potential new clients and their advisors."

Putting together an entire new department structure to better service our customers' needs meant finding someone with the ideal level of experience and expertise to head it up. And that's exactly what we did.

Richard Kennerley began his impressive career working for NatWest Bank, before moving on to merchant bank Hill Samuel. A qualified corporate treasurer, he joined Yorkshire Bank in 1996 to set up our Manchester office.

He then went on to become Head of Business Financial Services for Yorkshire Bank before bringing his extensive experience of corporate deals and restructuring to the national role of Head of Specialist & Acquisition Finance.

Our well-established teams in Scotland, Yorkshire and the North East, North West, Midlands, London and the South are now integrated and managed centrally under Richard. Given the specialist nature of these deals, having a co-ordinated national presence helps to ensure consistency of approach and delivery.

All with the backing of one of the world's largest financial services organisations, the National Australia Bank Group.