Nila Panchmatia Owner HSE Direct

How did you come to run a business?

I have been providing UK businesses with financial support for over 30 years, sourcing the most appropriate finance options tailored to their needs. I worked at Bank of Scotland (BOS) for 15 years, where I gained in-depth knowledge of providing flexible and suitable finance solutions for my clients. And now I have been running HSE Direct for 15 years.

What do you do now?

Leveraging my understanding of the challenges faced by SMEs I can help any type and size of business navigate their finance options, some of which they may not have been aware of before. As an independent asset finance Broker, regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers, my customers also get reassurance that I adhere to certain codes of professional conduct.

I work with businesses that need to borrow anything from £15,000 for a wide variety of business reasons, from cashflow improvement to growth, acquisition and of course asset purchase, either new assets or old.

One of the main differences between what I offer, and the options offered by a business bank is that I can go to a wide panel of different lenders for a solution, so if your business bank is unsupportive, maybe an alternative finance provider can help.

Why do businesses need asset finance?

Asset finance is ideal for businesses that want to raise capital quickly without having to rely on their cash reserves. Whether it's to support expansion or to manage unpredictable income streams, using your new or used assets as collateral offers a viable financing alternative.

With asset finance you can:

• Spread the purchase cost or rental of an asset over a suitable term.

• Release the equity in an asset you already own to get a cash injection.

• I also support other types of specialised finance such as those to cover tax invoices or to release cash held in unpaid invoices.

What is your best advice for a business in Southwark?

If you need finance for your business, think outside the box of just approaching your business bank as there may be better products or offers out there.

Why should a business use HSE Direct?

The main reasons are:

• Choice: I work with over 80 lenders, from wellknown high street brands to niche providers to select the products that best suit your needs.

• Simplicity: I can review multiple options with just a single application and provide comprehensive support from application to payout and beyond.

• Professionalism: I am part of both the awardwinning Asset Finance Solutions UK Limited network and the NACFB, which uphold the highest standards of professionalism in our industry.

• Quotations are completely free of charge.

For further information email: nila.panchmatia@afsuk.com