RBS announces first two of three key north of Scotland business development appointments

Royal Bank of Scotland has announced the first two of a trio of new business development appointments for newly created roles in the north of Scotland.

Emily Handfield-Jones has been appointed to the role of business development director, overseeing Aberdeen and surrounding areas.

She joins RBS Commercial and Private Banking following a series of directorial and leadership roles with Metro Bank and NatWest in London.

Paul Callaghan, a former relationship director with RBS specialising in the life sciences sector, meanwhile, has been appointed to business development director for Inverness and the Highlands and Islands.

The pair will work closely with RBS Commercial and Private Banking regional director Mark Gall and his team of relationship directors and managers, supporting further business and lending growth.

RBS also said that a third appointment, specialising in agriculture, will be made shortly.

The roles will see increased local engagement and presence and help enhance RBS’ understanding of the specific requirements of businesses within the area.

The 80 per cent state-owned bank said the there will also be a drive to create more lending opportunities to SMEs across the regions.

Ms Handfield-Jones will be based in Aberdeen, while Mr Callaghan will be based in Inverness.

Commenting on the new appointments, RBS Commercial and Private Banking regional director Mark Gall said: “We are delighted to welcome Emily and Paul to these new roles.

“Despite the challenges facing the oil and gas sector just now, business in the north of Scotland remains buoyant. We are working hard to ensure that when local companies and SMEs do business with RBS, they can feel confident that we will work with them to help them to realise their ambitions.

“Emily and Paul will work closely with the business community to provide the service and support the regional marketplace needs and to make sure we fully understand the issues affecting key sectors in Scotland.”