Stuart Benge (pictured) joins the SME lender from Assetz Capital and will focus on the Midlands. Andrew Oppe, joins from HSBC will cover London whilst Sam Shooter also joins.

Jackie Skelt, regional director, London and the Midlands for Recognise, said: “There is a buzz in the regions among SMEs who see a great opportunity to grow their businesses as we start to recover from the impact of the pandemic.

“As a result, they want to talk to lenders that understand them and don’t treat them as a tick box exercise. This is an exciting time for Recognise, so I am delighted that Stuart, Andrew and Sam are joining us to offer the understanding and expertise that is needed.”

Benge added: “This is truly a relationship-led sector, so I’m really pleased to be working with a bank that understands the importance of that. I’m looking forward to getting out and meeting with brokers and SMEs.”

Oppe added: “SMEs are the lifeblood of the UK economy, a role that is now more important than ever before. I’m passionate about standing up for, helping and supporting smaller businesses, so this is a perfect role for me.”

And Shooter concluded: “This is a great opportunity, and I am delighted to be joining Recognise at a time where we can help make a difference to SMEs across the country.”

Recognise’s offering includes commercial mortgages, bridging loans, professional practice loans and working capital loans, with professional buy-to-let mortgages to follow soon.