Redwood Bank strengthens leadership with new CCO Accountants launches innovative work experience programme

He said: “The past few years have been marked by changes in regulation, economic instability and frequent base rate changes.

“These factors have made planning more difficult across the sector, particularly for business banks. But they’ve also reinforced the importance of agility, strong partnerships and staying close to the needs of our brokers and customers.”

He added that Redwood’s, caseby-case approach to lending is a key differentiator in an increasingly competitive market. “We’ve built a reputation for personal service and pragmatic decision-making –we’re committed to retaining that as we grow.”

Gary Wilkinson, CEO and Co-Founder of Redwood Bank, said: “Stuart has been integral to our success since joining the Bank in its infancy.

He understands the strategic and operational levers needed to drive growth. His promotion reflects his vision, experience and deep commitment to our customers and brokers.

“I have every confidence he will thrive in this new role and continue to demonstrate the required strategic insight and leadership that have been instrumental in Redwood’s success.”

For further information, visit www.redwoodbank.co.uk

HB Accountants is proud to announce the official launch of its impactful work experience programme aimed at offering local students a unique, immersive introduction to the working world.

The programme, now live, brings together a collaborative network of businesses across Hertfordshire to provide students with a week-long rotational experience, working on five different real-world projects across five different organisations. This initiative is designed to bridge the growing skills gap and equip students with tangible workplace skills and insights across a range of sectors, from accounting and marketing to HR, operations and beyond.

“Our goal is simple: to inspire and prepare local students for the future of work. By exposing them to a variety of industries and business functions, we give them the confidence, experience and clarity they need to take their next steps,” said Karen Chase, Director at HB Accountants.

HB Accountants would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the following participating businesses for their support and collaboration in making this programme possible:

• Hoddesdon Enterprise Centre – Oxford Innovation Space: Zoe Galea and Louise Hickman

• Broxbourne Council: Ben Torreggiani

• The Payroll Lady: Joyce O’Leary

• Mole Valley Asset Management: Annemarie Otchere and Elena Berrino

• North House Dental Practice: Poonam Ramanandi

• Insight MCL: Abigayle Fisher

• Cannon Travel: Vivien Townsend and Kevin Brooks

• Nicholas James Mortgages: Sharon White

• Duffield Harrison Solicitors: Krupali Saujani and David White

• Sage Software: Jack Ryan and Tim O’Reilly

• Herts Futures

HB Accountants is already planning for 2026 and is calling on more local businesses to get involved in next year’s programme.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to give back, invest in future talent, and promote skills development in our community. Whether you’re a start-up or an established business, your involvement could make a lasting impact.”

To learn more or to register your interest in becoming a participating employer for 2026, please contact vickif@hbaccountants.co.uk