NatWest has recruited a new regional director to look after corporate and commercial banking in the West Midlands.

Sarah Cooper will be responsible for around 3,000 customers with turnovers starting at £2 million through to large corporations with revenues in excess of £1 billion.

She will lead a team of corporate and commercial directors and relationship managers across the West Midlands.

Ms Cooper has worked for NatWest for 26 years, undertaking roles with global and UK remits, based in London, Manchester and Birmingham, and has also held posts in human resources.

She said: "I am a strong advocate for the region and for the bank. I am delighted to be back in the Midlands to play a key role in the growth story.

"It's a fantastic opportunity and I have a strong desire to work with businesses across the Midlands to realise their potential."

Andrew Harrison, managing director for Midlands and east of England, added: “As a native of the West Midlands, whose home is in the region, Sarah is a passionate champion for the region and has been influential over the last 12 months, in shaping the bank’s wider strategy for the Midlands.

"I am very excited to welcome Sarah to this role and l know she will bring new insight and ideas to the leadership team as well as championing our support for women in business."

She replaces Andrew Mitchell who has been appointed as head of customer, business partner and risk assessment.

This is a senior national position in risk but he will remain based in Birmingham.