Reading: Trevor Harrison back for Handelsbanken

The Reading branch of Handelsbanken is anticipating a busy few months ahead following the publication of the group’s first half year results.

Despite the turmoil in the financial markets, the bank’s British operation performed particularly strongly with the average volume of lending up by 40% from 2007 to £4,554 million, while personal banking deposits are up by 86%.

The news coincides with the appointment of a new branch manager for Reading, Trevor Harrison, who set up Handelsbanken’s Swindon branch in 2006.

Prior to that, Harrison established, and managed for over a decade, the Reading business centre of Fortis, another large international bank. A Chartered Accountant, Harrison is a specialist in the corporate mid-market.

The appointment follows the move of former branch manager Roy Arbon to a new post at Handelsbanken’s Slough branch.

Commenting on his appointment, Harrison said: “In 2001 our Reading branch was the sixth of Handelsbanken’s British branches to open. Its success, steered these past four years by Roy Arbon, has demonstrated the appeal of the bank’s business model within Great Britain. The scale of this success is underlined by the recent announcement of our imminent branch opening in Harrow, which will comprise Handelsbanken’s 60th British branch.”

Since opening its doors almost seven years ago Handelsbanken has grown its customer base in Reading to over 400, ranging from several of the well known FTSE PLCs to SMEs, local professionals, as well as 200 of the region’s high profile private individuals. Total lending commitments exceed £250m and the bank holds significant client deposits

Harrison added: “Despite current turmoil in the financial world, Handelsbanken is benefiting from its consistently prudent approach to lending and strongly capitalised balance sheet.

“Unlike much of the industry, we remain very much in business to support solidly structured proposals. Indeed, we are experiencing an unprecedented level of enquiries from some of the finest names in our region who are seeking new banking partners.

“I am convinced Handelsbanken will continue to grow its business strongly in Reading by providing highly personalised, competitive and dependable banking services."