Reward Finance Group has bolstered its Manchester team with the appointment of two new relationship managers.

Paula Robertson and Lisa Cooper bring widespread financial sector experience to their new roles, which have been created to support Reward’s growing list of SME customers seeking short to medium-term lending solutions.

Having worked at RBS for 14 years, Robertson’s most recent position was senior risk on-boarding manager for a division specialising in providing working capital. She has experience in assessing and structuring deals for clients, and collaborating with a wider team to ensure the product offering is the right fit for the client.

Cooper joins Reward after relocating back to her native Cheshire after 30 years in West Yorkshire. She has worked predominantly in the invoice finance market throughout her career, including roles with Lloyds Commercial Finance. For the last four years, she worked in sales and operations in debt collection, covering both commercial and consumer recovery.

Cooper (pictured, left) said: “I have watched Reward’s growth over the last few years from a distance and have always heard great feedback in relation to them providing a quick, flexible approach to funding. When I was offered the role, I had no hesitation in accepting, and I am looking forward to many happy years ahead.”

Robertson (pictured, right) added: “I have worked in finance for 14 years and wanted to remain within the sector. When the opportunity came about to join the team at Reward, I jumped at it, as they have an excellent reputation for keeping things simple and delivering on their promises.

“Its experienced team of ‘go getters’ certainly create an exciting working environment and I am looking forward to working with them all to help SMEs flourish.”

Steve Noble, managing director of Reward Finance Group’s North West division, said: “Paula and Lisa bring a mix of experience that makes them superb additions to the Manchester team, and we’re delighted to have them on board.

“I know they will make an important contribution to Reward’s success in growing our regional client base, which has gone from strength-to-strength since we opened in the city five years ago.”