SME funder Ultimate Finance has hired Adrian Payne as regional director in the Midlands.

Payne (pictured), who hails from Telford, began his career with Barclays Bank before moving to Bibby Financial Services. He was then headhunted by Aldermore Bank and appointed regional sales manager.

“Ultimate Finance is one of the fastest growing asset-based lenders and certainly ‘making waves’ in the market place,” said Payne. “This is due to its ‘can do’ attitude in helping SMEs grow their businesses.

“It prides itself on its responsible lending approach while at the same time exploring flexible funding solutions to help businesses achieve even greater success.

“It is great to have joined them at such an exciting time and I am looking forward to working with the rest of the team to help the company with its next stage of development.”

Nick Smith, Ultimate Finance’s sales director, added: “We continue to assemble an experienced and well respected team which has helped both our client base and funds in use increase by more than 50% in the last 12 months.

“With Adrian’s contacts and track record, we are confident he will make a great addition and help us to continue to build our reputation and achieve our ambitious growth targets.”