Reward Finance Group has announced the appointment of Sharon Ellis as its new strategy and programme director. Ellis, who has spent the majority of her career in business banking, will be a key figure in guiding the company’s strategic vision and direction. The appointment comes as Reward celebrates surpassing the £200m lending milestone following 12 years of sustained growth.
Ellis has dedicated over a decade to the financial services industry, previously holding significant roles at companies such as Virgin Money. She will be responsible for shaping the strategic direction of Reward Finance Group across its six regional UK offices. The company specialises in offering fast and flexible finance solutions to SMEs, with lending capabilities of up to £5m.
With experience working with a diverse range of businesses, from sole traders to renowned PLCs, Ellis brings a multifaceted skill set to her new role. She will not only focus on product offerings and the company’s value proposition but will also take charge of programme management, initiating changes, and driving operational excellence.
On her appointment, Ellis said: “Coming onboard with Reward is the ideal next step for me. I am keen to leverage my business banking experience for the benefit of my role and Reward. With the company experiencing such impressive growth, I’m very excited to be part of shaping the strategic direction of the business in alignment with the Board’s wider vision.”
She further commented on Reward’s unique market position: “What struck me is that Reward offers a genuine alternative to conventional lenders and has the right culture embedded in its people, to ensure SMEs across the UK receive unmatched funding support. With my background leading major UK banks, the opportunity to deliver positive change and remain agile with evolving customer and market demands is also hugely appealing.”
Nick Smith, group managing director at Reward Finance Group, also expressed enthusiasm about Ellis’s appointment, saying: “Sharon is joining the team during a dynamic phase for Reward. Her extensive banking experience and strategic acumen in the financial services sector will be a real asset to our team and will be integral in achieving our long-term vision.”
Smith also highlighted the scope of Ellis’s role in the expanding business: “With the business continually expanding and diversifying, Sharon will also be working closely with our regional teams, from London to Scotland, to deliver a cohesive strategy.”
