Five minutes with: Ian Galbraith

Ian Galbraith Head of Broker Paragon Bank

Describe your role in ten words or less?

I motivate and lead the team to deliver for our brokers.

How do you make a difference?

I take ownership to ensure we deliver what we say we will deliver.

In your view what are the key elements to a successful deal?

The key element is finding a solution that works for the customer, broker, and Paragon.

What is your favourite SME success story?

Completing a re-finance of hard assets to support a management team in buying their own business.

What recent professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

Delivering CBILS to support businesses struggling though COVID-19.

What are the key elements to maintaining a strong lender/broker dynamic?

Good open communication, honesty, hunger, support, and finding solutions to get things done.

What is your favourite piece of management/leadership advice?

Always be open to keep learning and see the value of a strong diverse team.

What has been your lockdown essential?

Nespresso coffee capsules and a sense of humour. At the start of lockdown the business did a fantastic job getting almost all staff set up working from home within a few days. However controlling our three children at home being taught remotely has been an additional challenge especially when conducting business calls whilst battling against the sound

of guitar lessons!

What changes do you hope to see in the new normal?

More use of Microsoft Teams.

Which person has inspired you the most?

My father.

What was the last great book you read?

Tell No One by Harlan Coben. This is one of Coben’s older books but one of his best. It still keeps you guessing all the way through with sudden twists and a turns. It’s an easy read for your holidays.

Who do you admire most and why?

Sir Andy Murray. He’s resilient and always gives 100%.