LHV Bank has promoted two members of its commercial lending team as it continues to expand its SME lending proposition and operational capacity.
The bank has appointed Liam Grimes as senior portfolio manager, a newly created role within the SME lending team. He will report directly to Conor McDermott, director of SME lending.
Grimes joined LHV Bank in October 2024 as lending manager and has supported the development of the lender’s SME loan book during a period of rapid expansion.
Conor McDermott, director of SME lending at LHV Bank, said: “I’m delighted to see Liam step into the role of senior portfolio manager. Since joining LHV in October 2024, he has made a significant impact on the SME Lending team.
“As our loan book has grown tenfold to over £700m in less than two years, this new role reflects both the scale of our ambition and the strength of Liam’s contribution.
“His focus on supporting and overseeing our expanding portfolio will be key to ensuring we continue to grow in a sustainable way while maintaining the high standards our customers expect.”
Jane Woodruff has also been promoted, moving from lending operations manager to senior operations manager. In the new role she will report to Ryan Lunn, head of lending operations.
Woodruff joined the bank in September 2024 and has helped develop operational processes as lending activity has increased.
Ryan Lunn, head of lending operations at LHV Bank, said: “Jane’s promotion to senior operations manager is thoroughly deserved. Since joining LHV in September 2024, she has brought strong leadership and operational expertise to the team.
“Her commitment to delivering efficient, high quality processes has been instrumental in supporting the rapid growth of our lending business, and I’m looking forward to working with her in this expanded role.”
