Adrian Coles returns to banking after leading a fast-growing start-up, bringing first-hand business experience to his new role at NatWest Cymru.
NatWest Cymru has appointed Adrian Coles as Director of Corporate Banking, further strengthening its support for businesses across Wales.
A familiar face to many in the Welsh business community, Adrian returns with more than 17 years' banking experience and a unique perspective gained from running a business himself.
After spending 17-and-a-half years with NatWest supporting companies he left the bank in 2022 to become Managing Director of an education technology start-up. During his time there, he led fundraising activity, expanded the team and helped drive significant sales growth.
He later undertook a range of consultancy, advisory and non-executive roles, most recently as a Board Consultant and Director of Growth with Hexa Finance and also supporting Welsh scale up businesses as a Growth Advisor with Business in Focus, supporting leaders across a variety of sectors.
In his new role, Adrian will work with companies across Wales, helping them access the funding, expertise and connections needed to invest, improve productivity and achieve their ambitions.
Adrian Coles, said:
"I'm delighted to be returning to Wales and reconnecting with the businesses and communities that have always meant so much to me.
My time outside banking gave me first-hand experience of the opportunities and challenges facing business owners, from raising investment and growing a team to navigating uncertainty and winning new customers.
That experience helps me better understand the pressures our customers face and how we can support them. Wales has an ambitious and innovative business community, and I'm excited to play my part in helping it succeed."
Jessica Shipman, Chair of the NatWest Cymru Board, said:
"Adrian brings a powerful combination of banking expertise, entrepreneurial experience and deep knowledge of the Welsh business landscape.
Businesses value advisers who understand the realities of running and growing a company. Adrian has experienced those challenges first-hand, giving him a valuable perspective as he supports customers across Wales.
His appointment reinforces our commitment to helping businesses invest, innovate and create sustainable growth for communities across the country."
NatWest Cymru supports thousands of businesses across Wales through relationship banking, access to finance, sector expertise and entrepreneurship programmes. Adrian's appointment further strengthens the bank's ability to support Welsh businesses as they look to grow, improve productivity and seize new opportunities.
