Thomas Lewis has been appointed business manager for Barclays in Birmingham.

Mr Lewis, who has a background in business lending, joins a 16-strong business team which specialises in working with small and medium sized companies.

He said: “I am looking forward to the opportunity of working with our existing portfolio of clients and also with prospective customers.

“Emphasis will be on the delivery of a high standard of business banking service to support with business needs as the UK economy continues to progress.”

James Whitaker, area business manager for Barclays, said: “Thomas brings a wealth of experience in business lending which will be invaluable in this role.

“As confidence continues to return to the market, we would like to build on the great success of the last few years to help more and more customers grow their businesses.”