Supporting high growth businesses is central to NatWest’s growth strategy and commitment to the UK economy, with the bank identifying target sectors that make up what they call the Innovation Economy.
NatWest offers a full journey for entrepreneurs - from ideation with the NatWest Accelerators, strategically investing and partnering with tech companies through the Innovation and Partnerships team, and developing exit strategies through Coutts.
With Jenny’s appointment, NatWest will accelerate support for the Innovation Economy, offering tailored banking support to companies and VCs to fully wrap around the ecosystem.
Jenny’s team will be future focussed, supporting companies who have raised institutional investment in target sectors, such as fintech and life sciences, with innovative business models dedicated to technological advancement.
Jenny Edwards, Head of High Growth, NatWest said:
“NatWest has an unmatched platform in the UK to support innovation: deep sector expertise, a broad customer base, and the ability to provide capital, connectivity and counsel at every stage of growth. What excites me most is the chance to bring all those pieces together into one purposeful strategy.”
Jenny reports to Andy Gray, NatWest’s Commercial Mid-Market Managing Director, given the number of high growth businesses in the mid-market segment and scale of opportunity in this space.
Joining from J.P. Morgan, Jenny was responsible for building, scaling and leading the healthcare and life science business across the Western United States in her most recent role. Her team provided clients, ranging from start-up to IPO, with an array of cash management and funding solutions.
Over the coming months Jenny will be hiring a dedicated coverage team with sector specialisation, deep venture capital connectivity and an expanded venture debt offering.
Andy Gray, Managing Director, Commercial Mid-Market, NatWest said:
“Jenny brings a wealth of experience and expertise to us in her understanding of how to deliver a financial ecosystem in which high growth businesses can thrive, by providing tailored solutions and services to meet bespoke needs.
“With particular expertise in supporting health tech and life sciences businesses, Jenny will add important capability to us in this key growth sector and we’re delighted to have her on board.”
NatWest recognises the important role banks play in supporting the high growth sector and the whole Innovation Economy ecosystem. From facilitating access to capital and payment solutions, to providing credit risk assessments and hedging strategies for effective risk management, NatWest aims to be the bank of choice for high growth businesses across the UK.
