Meet Our People
Mark Clayton - Commercial Director, South
I originally joined the Group in 1988 doing my 'banking apprenticeship' in a small Branch. During the next few years I advanced through the standard branch roles of Back Office (including folding statements and taking the post to the Post Office!), Cashiering, Account opening and finally Customer Lending. In 1994 I moved to an appointed position at a brand new branch at Hemel Hempstead where at the time there were only two clients! Over the next couple of years I worked my way through various positions, ending up as 'Branch Manager' dealing with both personal and Business customers. I learnt during this time that with a good sponsor and concentrated personal development anything was possible.
In 1996, I moved to the original RBS Invoice finance business (RBIF) as a dedicated Business Development Manager. This move was due to the fact that I wanted to gain specific 'selling skills', and was aware that the Invoice Finance industry had excellent training in this area. After two successful years, I was fortunate enough to be in a position to move into Sales Management, running a localised team of 10 Business Development Managers.
Over the next few years I led various Sales teams before moving into a more Strategic role, supporting the board, at the start of 2005. Again this was a calculated move as I realised that I needed to immerse myself into a challenge which involved 'Bigger Picture' thinking. Whilst this was a 'gamble' moving away from the Front Line, I always had the long term view in mind. The role also ensure that my profile was high in the business.
During July, my years of hard work paid off when I was made Commercial Director, South. I have always found working for the RBS challenging although enjoyable. The big lesson I have learnt is the power of constantly pushing yourself into situations where you are 'uncomfortable' and gain valuable experience. It also allows you to be seen and heard by the Senior Mangers of the business. I am sure I will find the next few years even more challenging.
