Michael O'Malley
Whalley,Lancashire
Summary
Highly experienced and commercially focused credit professional with over 40 years in banking and asset finance. Proven track record in credit risk leadership, portfolio management, and strategic decision-making. Strong expertise in underwriting, regulatory compliance, and leading high-performing teams. Recognised for delivering sustainable growth while maintaining robust risk controls. Now seeking a role within asset finance or a related sector where extensive experience and leadership capability can add immediate value.
Overview
42
42
years of professional experience
Work history
Head of Credit
Haydock Finance Ltd
Blackburn, Lancashire
2018.06 - 2026.04
- Led and developed the credit function, setting strategy and risk appetite aligned with business objectives.
- Held ultimate responsibility for credit underwriting decisions across a diverse asset finance portfolio.
- Strengthened credit policy and governance frameworks, ensuring robust and consistent risk management.
- Improved credit decision turnaround times while maintaining disciplined underwriting standards.
- Oversaw portfolio performance, proactively managing risk, arrears, and impairment levels.
- Partnered closely with sales and commercial teams to support sustainable business growth.
- Played a key role in senior leadership discussions, contributing to overall company strategy and planning.
- Developed and mentored a high-performing credit team, enhancing capability and succession planning.
- Managed relationships with key stakeholders including auditors, funders, and regulatory bodies.
- Drove continuous improvement initiatives across credit processes and systems.
- Facilitated the training and development of junior staff members, enhancing their skills and knowledge in credit management.
- Increased client satisfaction by promptly responding to inquiries and resolving issues.
- Streamlined procedures which led to improved efficiency within the credit department.
- Worked closely with sales teams to ensure smooth transaction processes for clients.
- Collaborated effectively with other departments fostering a cohesive working environment.
- Conducted comprehensive credit risk assessments for improved lending decisions.
Area Director
NatWest Bank PLC
Regional
2000.02 - 2018.06
- Led a multiple teams of commercial banking managers, overseeing a substantial portfolio of SME and mid-market clients.
- Delivered consistent revenue and lending growth while maintaining strong credit quality and risk controls.
- Managed, coached, and developed a team of relationship managers to achieve performance targets.
- Set regional strategy in line with national objectives, driving business development and market penetration.
- Maintained accountability for credit decisions within delegated authority, balancing growth and risk.
- Built and maintained senior client relationships, supporting complex lending and structured finance solutions.
- Improved team productivity and engagement through strong leadership and performance management.
- Collaborated with risk and compliance teams to ensure adherence to regulatory standards.
- Successfully navigated changing economic conditions, maintaining portfolio resilience.
Commercial Manager
NatWest Bank Plc
Regional
1992.01 - 2000.02
- Managed a portfolio of commercial clients, delivering tailored lending and financial solutions.
- Assessed and sanctioned credit proposals, ensuring alignment with bank risk appetite.
- Built strong, long-term client relationships, contributing to business retention and growth.
- Identified new business opportunities and supported revenue generation initiatives.
- Maintained high standards of credit quality and portfolio performance.
- Worked closely with internal stakeholders to deliver efficient and effective client service.
- Provided guidance and support to junior team members, contributing to their development.
- Ensured compliance with internal policies and external regulatory requirements.
Assistant Manager - Credit
NatWest Bank Plc
Regional
1988.01 - 1992.01
- Led a multiple teams of underwriters , overseeing multiple portfolio of SMEclients.
- Delivered consistent revenue and lending growth while maintaining strong credit quality and risk controls.
- Managed, coached, and developed a team of relationship managers to achieve performance targets.Conducted detailed credit analysis and underwriting assessments.
- Supported senior management in lending decisions.
- Ensured compliance with internal credit policies and procedures.
Corporate Officer
NatWest Bank PLC
Preston, Lancashire
1984.06 - 1988.01
- Provided operational and administrative support to Senior Corporate Executives in the management of key corporate relationships.
- Actively participated in client meetings, contributing to relationships development and service delivery.
- Assisted in the preparation of complex credit papers for internal review, including financial analysis and risk assessment.
- Developed strong foundational knowledge of corporate banking, credit processes and client management.
Education
CCIBS - Banking
Chartered Institute of Bankers
LondonA-Levels - Economics, Maths, RS
St Marys College
Blackburn 09/1982 - 05/1984
O Levels - 9 subjects
Notre Dame RC High School
Blackburn 04/1982 - 06/1982
Skills
- Credit Risk Management & Underwriting
- Asset Finance & Commercial Lending
- Portfolio Oversight & Governance
- Regulatory Compliance & Risk Frameworks
- Strategic Planning & Execution
- Team Leadership & Development
- Stakeholder & Client Relationship Management
- Business Development Support
- Financial Analysis & Decision-Making
Affiliations
- I enjoy a wide range of sports , maintain an active lifestyle and have a keen focus on fitness. I also enjoy reading.
Timeline
Head of Credit
Haydock Finance Ltd
2018.06 - 2026.04
Area Director
NatWest Bank PLC
2000.02 - 2018.06
Commercial Manager
NatWest Bank Plc
1992.01 - 2000.02
Assistant Manager - Credit
NatWest Bank Plc
1988.01 - 1992.01
Corporate Officer
NatWest Bank PLC
1984.06 - 1988.01
CCIBS - Banking
Chartered Institute of Bankers
A-Levels - Economics, Maths, RS
St Marys College
09/1982 - 05/1984
O Levels - 9 subjects
Notre Dame RC High School
04/1982 - 06/1982