The British Business Bank has appointed Edward Tellwright to the role of senior manager for the South West. Edward brings many years of experience of working with smaller businesses in the region to access finance.

Edward started his career with an angel network in the South West, supporting businesses to raise more than £70 million.  Before his business career, he played professional rugby with stints at Sale Sharks, Rotherham and Jersey.

More recent roles included working at Business West with early-stage businesses and on StartUp Loans, before moving to Innovate UK EDGE.

Edward’s new role with the British Business Bank will have a particular focus on Bristol, Dorset, Devon, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Wiltshire, also working closely with the Bank’s Cornwall and Isles of Scilly representative, Lloyd Brina.

He will work closely with finance delivery partners, business development agencies and other organisations to improve access to financial support.  Next year will see the Bank launch a new £200 million South West Investment Fund to support the growth of smaller businesses across the South West of England, on course for launch in the first half of the year.

Edward Tellwright, UKN Senior Manager, South West at the British Business Bank, said: “As many smaller businesses across our region face tough economic headwinds, access to finance is fundamental for supporting them now and to help reach their long term potential

“I’m looking forward to using my experience to support businesses in the South West access the finance they need to succeed whatever the stage of their development and current needs”

Steve Conibear, UKN Director, South West at the British Business Bank, said: “We are really pleased to bring Edward with his tremendous experience on board. His record in supporting smaller businesses unlock the finance best suited to them will be key to helping create a more diverse finance market for smaller businesses and reduce regional imbalances.”