UTB expands Scottish presence with key hire

United Trust Bank’s (UTB) asset finance division has appointed Eleanor Russell-Blackburn as Business Development Manager to drive its broker support and business development efforts across Scotland.

The bank recently announced its intention to expand operations in Scotland, aiming to strengthen ties with brokers serving SMEs in a variety of sectors.

Russell-Blackburn brings extensive experience in SME and commercial finance, particularly within the Scottish asset finance market. Her career began at Haydock Finance, where she rose from Internal Account Manager to Regional Manager, cultivating broker relationships in Scotland. Most recently, she served as Senior Business Development Manager at Shawbrook Bank, focusing on mid-ticket and larger transactions.

Currently based in Tweeddale, Russell-Blackburn will focus on “strengthening existing relationships with brokers in Scotland” while introducing UTB’s offerings to new partners, the bank said. She reports to Astrid Michael, UTB Asset Finance Head of Sales.

Nathan Mollett, UTB’s Head of Asset Finance, highlighted the growth potential in Scotland: “Many thriving industries here remain underserved by the asset finance market. Eleanor’s experience and proximity to key cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow make her the ideal person to lead our expansion north.”

Russell-Blackburn expressed enthusiasm for her new role: “Scotland’s thriving SME landscape creates substantial demand for asset finance. Being locally based gives me a unique advantage in understanding the market and providing tailored solutions. I look forward to introducing brokers to UTB’s competitive products and service-driven approach.”