Based in Newcastle, she will focus on growing the bank’s real estate finance book.

Helen, who has over 15 years of experience in lending to businesses and retail estate investors, will report to Carl Ashley, regional director for the North of England and Scotland.

She joins the lender from Assetz Capital, where she worked as a senior relationship manager. 

While the bank has supported clients and brokers in the North East since it launched in 2012, Helen is the first relationship manager to be based in the region.

“Cambridge & Counties Bank has developed a leading proposition in its key markets, and I’m delighted to be joining the team and helping the bank expand in the key North East,” said Helen.

•   Cambridge & Counties Bank reports near 40% rise in gross new lending
•   Cambridge & Counties appoints chief transformation officer
•   The traffic light system in owner-occupied commercial lending slammed as 'utter nonsense'

“The North East is undergoing significant inward investment, and this is a very exciting time to be active in the region.

“I am looking forward to building on my established network of business, professional and broker contacts, and helping business owners grow and exceed their ambitions.”

Carl added: “We’re absolutely delighted to be expanding formally into the North East and to have hired someone of Helen’s calibre and track record of success. 

“We have always provided real estate funding in the North East, however, this has been largely on a reactive basis by a team based in the North. 

“The appointment of Helen, who lives in the region and has deep relationships with many local brokers, supports our aspirations for growth throughout the UK.”