CMF Capital, one of the UK’s leading independent asset funding specialists has bolstered its senior management team with the arrival of former ABN AMRO LEASE industry heavyweight Paul Meijer. Meijer will bring over forty years’ experience and relationships to CMF Capital and will be working closely with Managing Director John Mulheron to open new funding lines both in the UK but, also crucially across Europe and other overseas territories.

Paul Meijer’s appointment comes at a time when UK businesses are still concerned that a trade deal or customs arrangements with the EU can be reached, Meijer’s experience in Europe provides CMF with an even stronger ability to deliver crucial investment funding regardless of future Brexit negotiations.

Meijer who will be based between Amsterdam and London boasts an enviable record in the asset based lending industry and has a reputation for structuring high value funding agreements in sectors such as marine, aviation, renewable energy and intermodal transportation.

The arrival of the former ABN AMRO financier follows Septembers announcement that CMF Capital had posted a 19.28% increase in funding levels and closing a third more deals 2016-17. The increase has seen a total of over 140 projects financed at record levels across the UK last year. These figures were despite of the uncertainty of Brexit headwinds and the continued subsidies the Bank of England provides the major UK banks.

Timing of Meijer’s appointment could also prove crucial as the UK edges closer to clarity over trading relations with the EU Commission. In addition, a recent report by Deloitte noted a slight upward trend in confidence amongst CFO’s regarding planned expansion and investment across next year.

The report highlighted a 10% increase in confidence and whilst overall glasses still remained slightly ‘half empty’, 22% of FTSE 350 businesses were increasing capital expenditure in 2018 – up by 14% last quarter - with 20% looking to expand through acquisition. The report did not detail whether this expansion will focus on driving growth in European markets or whether it meant a more ‘global outlook’ but the CMF management team is quickly positioning itself to deliver funding and investment regardless of the clients’ wider strategic objectives.

Commenting on the arrival of Paul Meijer, CMF Managing Director said;

“We have known Paul for a number of years whilst with ABN AMRO and have worked on a number of high profile deals together. He brings considerable experience to the team, is a strategic thinker and has network of contacts and relationships that only come with four decades in the finance industry. He also shares our philosophy of putting clients’ needs first. CMF Capital has grown over the last thirteen years because of the way it does business and by building long lasting relationships.”

As the UK begins to prepare for life outside of the European Union, Downing Street still hasn’t answered a series of major questions that are creating a level of indecision. One being how the £7.1bn of investment the EU contributed to UK businesses will be found. A funding gap that CMF Capital is standing ready to fill according to Meijer.

“I am delighted to be joining CMF Capital at this exciting phase of growth. There is already a talented team in place and with over 80% of CMF’s clients being repeat business, it demonstrates the relationships and integrity they have built up over the years.”

“We know Brexit is a divisive issue, but as every good business knows, this can be translated into a shared vision. With politicians starting to listen to industry bodies such as the CBI, we view Brexit as an opportunity – especially with trade between the UK and EU worth a staggering £1.5 trillion. It’s time to be brave and if there is a funding gap during any transition period, we have the ability to structure lending with a range of financial solutions.”

“Businesses are exporting more and the wider global economy is strong, helped by the resurgent emerging markets but SME’s are missing out on £141bn a year by not selling goods or services overseas. This is huge opportunity and one that CMF Capital has the ability to help deliver.”

Concluded Meijer.

As businesses take stock following the Chancellor’s budget and EU negotiations appearing to inch forward, SME and mid-cap businesses will be looking for guidance, support and further clarity. However, the ongoing issue are business leaders having confidence in the politicians to deliver the right trade and customs deal, but also ensure that the funding streams providing crucial UK investment do not dry up. Whether on home soil, Europe of globally, CMF has the ability to deliver.