HSBC has announced the appointment of Stephen Breen as area commercial director for Coventry and Warwickshire.

Mr Breen will manage HSBC’s commercial banking operations in the region and report to Roy Harris, regional commercial director for the Midlands.

He brings with him more than 25 years of experience working in the commercial banking industry.

In his new position, he will oversee strategic planning, development and business performance for the region, which includes busy commercial centres such as Coventry, Warwick, Nuneaton, Leamington Spa, Stratford upon Avon and Rugby.

Prior to joining HSBC, Mr Breen was area director for the Bank of Ireland in the Midlands for six years, managing a team of 15.

Before this, he spent 20 years with RBS, eight of which in the Warwickshire region and the last three as area commercial director.

He said: “I’ve joined HSBC at an exciting time.

“It has a clear appetite to lend, particularly to those businesses that are trading internationally or aspire to trade overseas. HSBC has a strong reputation for excellent customer service to both its existing and new customers.

“The general feeling is that there appears to be renewed confidence among many businesses in Warwickshire, with some simply preparing for better times ahead and others actively seeking out new international markets.

“Therefore, it is vital that the bank has the right resources to provide the high level support needed and I look forward to working with the team to continue to achieve this. I also look forward to renewing professional acquaintances in the region.”

Mr Harris said: “I am pleased to welcome Stephen in this key role. It is important that we are able to invest even more time talking to our customers so we can better understand their business, the issues they face and their ambitions.

“Stephen’s appointment reinforces our commitment to do just this.”

Mr Breen is married, with three boys who all play rugby. His interests include all sports and he supports Leeds United.