BTG strengthens asset finance division with new leadership and senior appointments

BTG has named James Dutton as its new Head of Asset Finance and made three senior hires to enhance the strategic financial expertise in its asset finance team for clients.

The new Head of Asset Finance at BTG, which recently rebranded from Begbies Traynor Group to reflect the growing range of advice across its service lines, will lead the Group’s asset finance offering across the UK, helping clients expand domestically and internationally.

James, who has more than 30 years of experience in the asset finance sector, specialising in complex, cross-border asset finance deals, will be supported by three new senior team members, Senior Relationship Director John Egerton, and Relationship Managers Paul Newman and Lee Lawrence. 

John Egerton, based in Manchester and covering the North West, has operated in the asset finance industry for the last 30 years. He specialises in a range of areas, including vehicle finance, hire purchase agreements, as well as soft and hard assets. He has previously held key positions at large banks and alternative lenders, as well as setting up his own brokerage, giving him a range of experience in asset finance from multiple angles.

Paul Newman, based in Newcastle and Teesside and covering the North East, brings decades of experience in identifying and securing new business, executing financial management strategies, and developing key relationships with clients. 

Lee Lawrence, based in Southampton and covering the South Coast, joins as a dynamic and successful sales individual, possessing a wealth of asset finance experience, having previously worked for high-profile finance brokers and funders.

David Mathieson, Managing Director of Funding and Insurance at BTG, said:

“James is the ideal person to lead the asset finance division. His knowledge, experience and creative ability to work with lenders to find the best solution for clients have enabled many promising companies to take the next step in their growth journey. We are excited to be able to have someone of his calibre and skillset to lead our talented asset finance division.”

David Abbott, Managing Partner and Head of Financial Advisory at BTG, said:

“The additions of John, Lee and Paul strengthen BTG’s reputation for providing comprehensive solutions to clients on a national level thanks to their respective experience and knowledge. I look forward to working with them all and delivering a full range of cross-service solutions to clients in the coming months and years.”

James Dutton, Head of Asset Finance at BTG, said:   

“Since joining BTG more than six years ago, I have seen first-hand the growth, success, and ambition that the asset finance division and the wider group demonstrate on a consistent basis. The rebrand has given us the opportunity to develop the asset finance team and encourage collaboration with the other BTG services lines. This has enabled us to support clients throughout their lifecycle whether looking to revive or continue to thrive.

“Bringing John, Lee and Paul to the team adds significant experience that clients will immediately benefit from as we help them grow. This is an exciting time for the Group and with our clients at the centre of everything we do, we are looking forward to making sure they know that there are significant opportunities to benefit from greater access to a wider range of services.”