Not just a credit score with Daniel Hughes, Regional Sales Manager
At Close Brothers Asset Finance, our customers are more than just a credit score - we base our lending decisions on the overall health and plans for a business.
The human component is core to our success and every stage in the lending decision-making process involves a member of our team.
We spoke with Daniel Hughes, a Regional Sales Manager in our construction team, to explain more about the application process…
Stage 1
Typically, new enquiries come either from new or existing customers contacting us directly. This can range from introducers - such as a dealership – to the many equipment manufacturers we have a working relationship with.
Existing customers tend to email or call me directly because I’m their main contact throughout their time with us.
In the early stages, most communication is conducted by email, phone calls, or a mix of the two; however I’m also happy to meet clients face-to-face if that’s their preference. We are very flexible and adapt to our customers’ needs – we understand they may have irregular working hours, and I’m happy to speak or pick up messages and texts at a time that suits them.
Stage 2
When I get an enquiry, I’ll start by carefully listening to what my customer is looking to achieve after which I’ll provide my recommendation on the most appropriate finance solution, whether that be Hire Purchase, Refinance or a Lease agreement.
Something to note is we aren’t afraid of tailor-made deals – it’s what sets us apart. If the customer’s request is unusual, I talk it through with them before we put an application together to determine if they want to proceed or maybe work it in a different way.
At this stage I ask the customer to give me all the information needed to support their application. Some customers have been known to withhold what they feel could be perceived as negative information, thinking it will lead to their application being declined. This is not the case at Close Brothers Asset Finance, because we make decisions based on the overall health and future plans for the business.
Knowing everything up front means we can address any queries and explain any situations to our in-house team of underwriters, helping them to reach a decision that’s right for both the customer and Close Brothers Asset Finance.
Stage 3
Once we are set on a plan, I will advise on any further information I need and - once received - I will submit the proposal to the underwriters. If there are any questions from them, I will feed this back to the customer, obtaining answers to facilitate a speedy decision.
I then let the customer know which decision has been reached, and if it’s an approval, we raise the required documentation for signing and payout is arranged.
I hope I’ve been able to show that not only is the application process straightforward, but that real people are responsible for making the decisions.
The availability of lending, products and services are subject to eligibility, status and our lending criteria. The right to decline any application is reserved, terms and conditions apply.
