Lisa Robey, branch manager of local relationship bank Handelsbanken in Milton Keynes, explains why the company’s approach offers something different from that of high street banks.
How does Handelsbanken differ from the traditional UK high street banks?
Unlike high street banks, we have a decentralised model, which means our customers benefit from swift, clear decisions, made in the branch by people they know. Each customer has a direct line to their own account manager, who knows the local market and invests time to understand their aspirations, to reach truly bespoke solutions. Our customers trust us because we focus on building long-term relationships, and because we’re free from sales targets or short-term bonuses, they know we’re always working in their best interest.
Tell us a bit about Handelsbanken in Milton Keynes
We’re 15 years old this year! We opened our doors in September 2007 and since then we’ve gone from strength to strength. We’re a team of 11 experienced bankers with over 260 years’ experience between us. We serve the areas of Milton Keynes, Bletchley, Newport Pagnell, Woburn, Winslow and Buckingham, offering personal and corporate banking along with a wealth management service, so no matter what stage in life our customers are at, we can help and it’s all done here in the branch.
With a focus on customer service rather than expensive marketing campaigns, our customers come to us through word of mouth and recommendation, which we’re proud to say is down to the quality of service our branch colleagues deliver each and every day.
What part does sustainability play at Handelsbanken?
Working towards a more sustainable future has always been a priority for us and we’ve recently committed to reaching net zero by 2040, that’s a decade sooner than is planned for the UK as a whole. We continue to run our business in a sustainable way, aiming to deliver positive environmental and social outcomes, through sustainable finance products and responsible investment options.
The relationships we have with our customers means we can guide them on their sustainability journey too, as we all face up to the challenges and opportunities that the climate crisis brings. We can help customers by supporting them as they find solutions to running their businesses in a more sustainable way, whether that’s funding solar panels or making the move to electric vehicles.
As a local bank how important is community to you?
Being part of the community is a key part of what Handelsbanken is about. It not only benefits our customers, but also means we can really make a difference in the area. Our local knowledge can really help customers whether they want to finance property or seek solutions for their business.
With a focus on building a more sustainable future in all that we do, we’re keen to give something back to our community, whether that’s planting trees at Middleton Wood Meadow or supporting our local food banks.
Finally, what are your ambitions for the branch?
Put simply, to be the best bank in town. Customer satisfaction drives everything we do and we’ll continue to invest in our people and our branch so that we can help individuals and businesses realise their ambitions.
Find out more about Handelsbanken’s relationship approach to banking at Handelsbanken.co.uk or contact the Milton Keynes branch – Second floor Moorgate House, 201 Silbury Boulevard, Milton Keynes MK9 1LZ – on 01908 677377 or email miltonkeynes@handelsbanken.co.uk
