Paragon Bank’s Development Finance division has strengthened its presence in the North West with the appointment of Dave Rowlinson as Relationship Director.

Dave, who will be based in Manchester, has an in-depth knowledge of the North West real estate and commercial property market, developed over a 30-year plus career in banking and financial services. Previous roles include property director at Oaknorth Bank and a senior manager at Investec, where he spent over 11 years.

His appointment is part of Paragon Development Finance team’s strategic plan to grow its presence in regional markets. Paragon’s Development Finance division specialises in supporting small to medium-sized housebuilders.

Dave said: “Paragon has ambitious plans to grow in the North West, helping to support small-to-medium-sized developers provide much needed new homes across the region. What attracted me to Paragon is the experience and pedigree of the Development Finance team, its commitment to the sector and its financial strength, being part of a well-established, well-funded, successful FTSE-250 financial services company. 

“It’s a serious player in this sector, which is demonstrated by its continued support of developers throughout the coronavirus pandemic. I look forward to working with developers across the North West to help them realise their ambitions.” 

Paragon Bank’s Development Finance division increased lending to residential housebuilders by nearly £200 million during the first half of the company’s financial year, taking its net loan book to over £500 million.

Robert Orr, Paragon Bank Development Finance Managing Director, said: “The North West is a market we know has great opportunity. It benefits from a strong economy, with traditional industries being complemented by high-tech sectors, world-class universities and diverse geography. Its football teams aren’t bad either! People want to live in this region and Paragon is keen to support developers provide the housing to meet this demand.   

“The demand for new housing looks like it will remain strong into the future and smaller developers want to work with a bank that is consistent, is financially strong and has the experience and expertise to support their business.”

For further information contact:

Amy Lange

Media Relations Manager

Tel: 0121 712 2526

www.paragonbank.co.uk