Welcome to our ‘Get to Know’ series, where we introduce the people behind Recognise Bank’s relationship-led lending.
From navigating complex deals to understanding the unique needs of SMEs and brokers, our Lending Managers are at the heart of what we do. In this edition, we sit down with Richard Winston, one of our experienced Lending Managers, to learn more about his journey into banking, what makes a great deal, and the parasailing trip he won’t forget.
What attracted you to Recognise Bank?
I started in banking back in 2005 and quickly found myself drawn to SMEs, their unique stories, motivations, and passion for doing what they do. I enjoyed figuring out how I could support their growth through banking and lending facilities. Over time, that evolved into a strong passion for Real Estate. What attracted me to Recognise was the relationship-focused approach. There’s a real appetite here to support deals and deliver a customer-first service, which aligns perfectly with how I like to work.
What do you love most about working with brokers and SMEs?
It’s all about the relationships. I genuinely enjoy building connections with brokers and their clients, and working together to overcome challenges. There’s something very rewarding about seeing a deal come together and knowing it’s going to help a business move forward with its growth plans.
Something unexpected about your background that shaped your career?
Working as a Commercial Mortgage Broker earlier in my career gave me deep insight into the Real Estate sector, including bridging and development finance. It really shaped how I approach deals now, from both the lender and broker perspective.
What makes a deal stand out?
Honestly, it’s how the deal is presented. Every deal has its quirks, it’s rarely straightforward. But I enjoy getting into the details quickly, understanding what those quirks are, and how we can mitigate them to get it over the line.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give a business considering bridging finance?
Always have a Plan B. A solid exit strategy is crucial, it gives both the lender and the borrower confidence in the outcome.
What’s the most rewarding part of completing a deal?
Knowing that you’ve played a part in helping a borrower achieve what they set out to do. That feeling never gets old.
In your view, what sets Recognise Bank apart from other lenders?
We’re modern, innovative, and genuinely relationship-led. It’s not just about the transaction, we’re here to support brokers and clients with real conversations and long-term thinking.
What have you learned from working with brokers?
That you’re never the only lender on their radar! They’ve got options, so it really reinforces how important strong, trusted relationships are in this industry.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
Most of my time outside work is spent with my family, usually running a full-time taxi service for my kids! It keeps me busy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Complete this sentence: “People might not guess this about me, but…”
…I thought that parasailing on holiday a couple of years ago with my 12-year-old son might help my fear of heights. It did not.
Thanks for sharing your story, Richard.
It’s clear that your experience, broker insight, and relationship-first approach play a big part in delivering the kind of service Recognise Bank is proud of.
Stay tuned for more conversations with the people behind the bank as we continue our Get to Know series.
Learn more about our flexible Bridging Loan solutions and how we can support your needs.
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