Meet the Expert: Steve Hope, Sales Director
Steve Hope is a Sales Director in our Glasgow transport team.
Briefly tell us about your role and what you do…
As Sales Director for Close Brothers Asset Finance in Glasgow, my role is to work closely with the direct sales team to ensure we are maximising new business opportunities across Scotland. A large portion of my time is spent visiting existing customers, prospects, and dealers with the sales team.
What was your journey to Close Brothers Asset Finance?
I began in asset finance 25 years ago with UK bank-owned leasing companies. In 2004, I moved to Canada, working in sales and sales management roles for Canadian and US companies, including as Sales Director and Vice President of Sales.
After 18 years in Canada, I returned to the UK to become European Head of New Business for a large asset finance company for equipment and technology. I joined Close Brothers Asset Finance in September 2024.
What’s been your favourite part of the role so far?
The best part of my role has been meeting with customers to understand their business and how we can assist with their growth plans. It's always interesting speaking with a business owner, not only to discuss the direction of their business but the market in general.
Based on my previous role, I also enjoy getting in front of equipment dealers and vendors to detail the value that Close Brothers Asset Finance can offer in assisting them in closing deals with their customer base.
Outside of work, how do you like to spend your time?
I am a keen (but average) golfer, and it’s been great to take advantage of playing some of the great courses that we are lucky to have in Scotland. As I'm originally from Newcastle, I have been a lifelong supporter of Newcastle United and retain the dream that they will win a trophy in my lifetime.
What assets have you found are the most ‘in demand’ at the moment?
We have found the bus and coach sector in Scotland to be buoyant recently, with asset values holding up well. With Glasgow securing the Commonwealth Games for 2026, this will be an additional boost for this sector, so we expect to see this market continuing to thrive.
What do you think 2025 holds for your sector?
There has been evidence in the back end of 2024 that some business owners have been holding off on asset purchases as they wait to see how various factors, such as the recent budget, impact businesses.
Our direct sales team in Glasgow is dedicated to understanding and meeting the needs of our customers and dealers, ensuring we are ready to support them when they decide to proceed in 2025.
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