At ABL, our people truly make us. That’s why we’re taking the time to get to know each and every one of them.
In the spotlight this month is joint managing director Andy Redman, who fills us in on his vision for the future for ABL, as well as what he likes to get up to when he’s away from his desk.
Why do you think is the key thing that differentiates ABL from competitors?
We focus on the customers, what their needs are, and what they are trying to achieve, rather than looking at our work as simply transactional. We pride ourselves on never using jargon and always being a friendly and knowledgeable partner to work alongside.
Not only that, but another main differentiator is that we work as cohesive team, whether that’s with our internal colleagues or trusted partner advisors.
Where do you see the business in five years?
We’re opening a network of ABL centres across the country, with the aim to have five regional offices by the end of 2022. We recently opened one in the South West and have a presence in Scotland too, but we plan to open a further two sites this year as well. It’s important for us to enable businesses around the country to have a local ABL base, no matter where they are. It’s all about supporting organisations and their communities.
What do you see as a ‘job well done’?
To me, a job well done is enabling customers to achieve their goals, by helping them find solutions that genuinely work for them — I find this to be the best part of my role.
What three words do you think best describe ABL?
‘Asset Based Lending’ because this is what ABL stands for — literally! Although, it’s always interesting to see what people think it is, I’ve heard some wild guesses in the time we’ve been operating.
Where’s your favourite place to eat out – that we should really try?
Buon Apps River Lounge and Italian Restaurant in Otley. They have some great dishes, especially their ragù, which I highly recommend.
What’s the first thing you do when you get home on a Friday evening?
Normally, I like to go for a drink. My favourite pub is The Fox at Menston, but because of Covid I’ve not been able to go for a while. I’m looking forward to being able to visit again later in the summer.
How do you switch off while away from your desk?
I coach a girl’s football team, which my daughter is a member of. It’s very different to finding finance for businesses, but it’s great to be outside after a day in the office.
If we were to spend a day box set binging, what series would you recommend we watch?
I recently watched Narcos and really enjoyed it!