Alternative finance lender, Reward Finance Group, is strengthening its expansion plans in the North East by appointing Aaron Tinmouth as business development manager.

Originally from South Shields, Aaron has spent five years in the banking sector, most recently as a lending specialist where he managed and maintained a commercial portfolio of active applications.

Aaron will support Harriet Gibbs, Reward’s business development director in this region, in establishing relationships with property investors and SMEs via Harriet’s network of brokers and business advisers.

Harriet has over 11 years of experience in the finance industry, two of these at Reward, where she has supported a wide range of entrepreneurs and property investors in driving businesses growth. This has included providing working capital injections and financing for M&A transactions and property acquisitions.

Harriet Gibbs commented: “Expanding the team and presence in the North East reflects our continued growth across the UK and, most importantly, our commitment to providing tailored funding solutions to support property investors and SMEs in driving growth, creating jobs, or navigating challenging economic conditions.

“Being local and knowledgeable about the funding needs in the region, Aaron brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role and the wider team. This is particularly timely as our alternative finance approach to lending is increasingly being well received by local property investors and businesses struggling to access finance from high street banks.”

Gemma Wright, managing director for Yorkshire and the North East at Reward, added: “We take pride in having experienced and well-connected people at Reward, and Harriet and Aaron add great value in the North East.

“We understand that many property investors and SMEs in the region are being impacted by rising inflation, interest rates and corporation tax. This has been exacerbated by an increased difficulty to secure funding and reinforces our focus on helping more businesses in the North East to access finance to overcome challenges, innovate and unlock growth.”