Matthew Pope
About Matthew Pope
Matthew Pope serves as the SME Underwriting Lead at Starling Bank in London, where he has worked since 2021. He has a strong background in banking, with previous roles at RBS, HSBC, and NatWest, and holds multiple qualifications in finance and management.
Work at Starling Bank
Matthew Pope has been serving as the SME Underwriting Lead at Starling Bank since 2021. In this role, he oversees the underwriting process for small and medium enterprises, ensuring that lending decisions align with the bank's risk management framework. Prior to this position, he worked as a Senior SME Lending Specialist at Starling Bank for 10 months, where he focused on evaluating and approving loans for SMEs. His experience at Starling Bank contributes to the bank's commitment to delivering tailored financial solutions to its business clients.
Education and Expertise
Matthew Pope is currently studying at One Education, pursuing a Diploma in Lean Process and Six Sigma, which he began in 2020. He also holds a Diploma in Lending Skills from The Chartered Banker Institute, which he has been studying since 2019. Additionally, he achieved Credit Skills from the Institute of Financial Services between 2012 and 2014. His educational background supports his expertise in banking and finance, as well as his proficiency in process improvement methodologies.
Professional Background
Matthew Pope has a diverse professional background in the banking sector. He began his career as a Management Trainee at HSBC, where he worked from 2002 to 2007. He then transitioned to RBS, serving as a Relationship Manager and later as a Business Development Manager from 2007 to 2015. Following this, he worked at NatWest as a Senior Relationship Manager from 2015 to 2020. His extensive experience in various roles within banking has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of customer relationship management and lending practices.
Achievements in SME Underwriting
Matthew Pope has been recognized for his contributions to the SME underwriting sector, particularly in developing solutions that save costs, improve revenues, and enhance customer satisfaction. His ability to implement effective underwriting strategies has made a significant impact on the organizations he has worked with, particularly at Starling Bank. His professional certifications, including the Certified Professional Banker designation, further validate his expertise in the field.
Community Involvement
In addition to his professional commitments, Matthew Pope has demonstrated community involvement by volunteering as Treasurer for a local youth football club. This role reflects his dedication to financial stewardship and community service, showcasing his ability to manage financial resources effectively while contributing to local initiatives.