NatWest Cymru Appoints Adrian Coles to Lead Commercial Banking and Support Welsh Business Growth
NatWest Cymru has appointed Adrian Coles as Director of Commercial & Mid-Market Banking, a strategic move to bolster support for enterprises across Wales. Coles brings over 17 years of banking expertise combined with recent first-hand experience as a start-up leader. This dual background positions him to offer unique insights into the challenges facing modern Welsh businesses.
The former executive spent 17-and-a-half years with NatWest supporting companies before departing in 2022. He subsequently became Managing Director of an education technology start-up, where he led fundraising and drove significant sales growth. His tenure involved expanding the team and navigating the complexities of scaling a young company.
Following his time in the start-up sector, Coles undertook various consultancy and non-executive roles. He most recently served as a Board Consultant and Director of Growth with Hexa Finance. Additionally, he supported Welsh scale-up businesses as a Growth Advisor with Business in Focus.
In his new capacity, Coles will work directly with companies across Wales to help them access essential funding. He aims to provide the expertise and connections needed for businesses to invest and improve productivity. His role is designed to help firms achieve their long-term commercial ambitions.
Adrian Coles expressed his enthusiasm for returning to the Welsh business community. “I’m delighted to be returning to Wales and reconnecting with the businesses and communities that have always meant so much to me,” he said. He highlighted how his time outside banking gave him first-hand experience of the opportunities and challenges facing business owners.
Coles noted that his entrepreneurial journey involved raising investment, growing a team, and navigating uncertainty. “That experience helps me better understand the pressures our customers face and how we can support them,” he added. He described Wales as having an ambitious and innovative business community ready for success.
Jessica Shipman, Chair of the NatWest Cymru Board, praised Coles’ appointment. “Adrian brings a powerful combination of banking expertise, entrepreneurial experience and deep knowledge of the Welsh business landscape,” Shipman stated. She emphasised that businesses value advisers who understand the realities of running and growing a company.
Shipman noted that Coles has experienced these challenges first-hand, giving him a valuable perspective. “His appointment reinforces our commitment to helping businesses invest, innovate and create sustainable growth for communities across the country,” she confirmed. This leadership change underscores the bank’s dedication to local economic development.
NatWest Cymru supports thousands of businesses through relationship banking, access to finance, and sector expertise. The bank also offers entrepreneurship programmes to foster innovation. Coles’ appointment further strengthens the institution’s ability to support Welsh businesses as they look to grow and seize new opportunities.
