Meet Our Team: Joseph Wilson

Relationships are the foundation of our business and here at Close Brothers Property Finance, we are immensely proud of the strength of our team in building and nurturing those relationships. Here we meet some familiar and less familiar faces, who make Close Brothers the thriving institution it is today. Watch this space for regular updates from our dedicated team.

18 January 2023

As we start the New Year, Business Development Manager Joe Wilson reflects on the importance of relationship building at Close Brothers, his progress at the Bank and advice on how to excel professionally.  

Tell us about your career path and entry to Close Brothers Property Finance…  

 I started at Close Brothers in 2014 having previously worked for an Irish bank, which had succumbed to the recession. My initial role as a Portfolio Manager progressed to a Senior Portfolio Manager position, which I held for eight years, but I have recently been promoted to a Business Development Manager - this was always my goal, so to achieve the promotion is great, but it’s just the start. 2023 is upon us and even though uncertain times are forecast, I’m very much looking forward to getting out there and building new relationships.  

How important is ‘relationship’ lending to the Close Brothers Property Finance ethic?  

Relationships are paramount to what we do as they enable us to understand our clients’ requirements. Whether it be at the initial stage of discussing the scheme, during the development or finally exiting. Requirements may change throughout so, having that trust to discuss different matters, enables us to provide the service we expect to deliver at Close. A healthy relationship is important in the good times but essential in the uncertain. If we have the element of trust, we can work together to ensure all parties achieve a successful outcome.  

What do you need to be successful and what career opportunities are available?   

You can progress from the bottom to the top if you really want it and this is evident from the high numbers of my current colleagues who have progressed likewise. Some from back office into senior front office positions and some from there to director level. I would say you have to be committed, driven, a people person and sociable.   

Work life balance is very important, what do you do outside of work to keep it in check? 

I try and get to the gym, but with kids and a growing family that seems to get harder every day. Family holidays in warm destinations, swimming and playing football with the kids help me to keep that essential balance. I do manage to get to quite a few West Ham games though, allegedly for relaxation! 

If you had the chance to be on Celebrity Big Brother, who would you like to be with you? 

If was in the CBB house it would have to be with people who would keep me entertained. Ricky Hatton, Jimmy Bullard, Micky Flannagan, Kelly Brook, Jessica Alba, Jennifer Lopez. Sportsmen, a comedian, model, actress, singer. Should keep me entertained!  

Describe Close Brothers Property Finance in three words. 

If I had to describe Close Brothers in three words it would be successful, understanding and resilient.