After working in Natwest for over 20 years, a bank worker has joined a brokerage and is keen to carry on helping SMEs.

The former Natwest senior relationship manager, John Sheehan, has taken an early retirement package from the bank and brings his wealth of experience to the brokerage, Murray & Co.

John Sheehan will be a consultant at Murray & Co, and plans to assist PJ Murray with the substantial increase in business from London and the South East. Mr Sheehan will also be carrying on his work with SMEs.

John joined NatWest in 1971 and has explained that he had spent the last 20 years in the SME sector, both in new lending and more recently as a relationship director.

“While the market is still very difficult, I believe that the recent agreement between the government and the banks will result in a real increase in supply of commercial finance. And because my principal interest has always been in SME finance, joining one of the most successful brokerages in the market will allow me to use my experience to help small businesses secure the funds they need,” he said.

John has known PJ Murray for years and with his extensive experience, combined with the demand for bridging loans among SME’s, it seemed like a natural move. He explained that there is certainly scope within the financial services industry to offer help to SME’s through bridging loans.

Managing Director PJ Murray has maintained a close working relationship with John for almost 20 years, and this was one of his main reasons for joining this particular firm.

PJ Murray, Managing Director at Murray & Co, commented:“I was delighted that John decided to join Murray & Co. He has a wealth of experience in the commercial finance market and with the recent appointment of Keith Heron will further strengthen the team.”