
Introduction to 1pm
1pm plc stands as a distinguished British specialist lender and asset finance provider, headquartered in the historic city of Bath, England. With a robust presence in the commercial finance sector, 1pm has carved out a reputation for delivering tailored financing solutions to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the United Kingdom. The company operates through several key divisions, including asset finance, vehicle finance, and secured business loans, offering flexible funding options that help businesses acquire essential equipment, vehicles, and working capital. Established in 2006, 1pm has grown into a publicly traded entity on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange (ticker: 1PM), demonstrating transparency, governance, and a commitment to shareholder value. Over the years, 1pm has maintained a strong balance sheet, with a diversified loan book exceeding £200 million and a network of over 1,500 introducers and broker partners. The company's market reputation is built on its ability to underwrite complex credit scenarios, provide fast decisioning, and offer exceptional customer service. Banks, credit unions, and alternative lenders often look to 1pm as a benchmark for efficient asset-based lending. The management team, led by CEO Mike Harrison, brings decades of experience in lending, risk management, and financial technology. As a top Finance company, 1pm consistently invests in digital platforms and data analytics to streamline origination, credit assessment, and portfolio management. Organizations from manufacturing, construction, transportation, and healthcare rely on 1pm for reliable, transparent financing. This comprehensive company profile explores the history, values, products, and culture that define 1pm, while also detailing the opportunities available for new talent in the role of Senior Credit Analyst.
Company History and Business Evolution
1pm was founded in 2006 by a team of finance professionals who recognized a gap in the UK market for flexible asset finance that could adapt to the diverse needs of SMEs. The company started as a small brokerage in Bath, arranging finance for commercial vehicles and machinery. In 2008, amid the global financial crisis, 1pm pivoted to direct lending, leveraging its deep understanding of asset risk to fund transactions that traditional banks were increasingly avoiding. This strategic move proved pivotal, allowing 1pm to build a direct loan book and foster long-term client relationships. The company achieved its first major milestone in 2012 when it was admitted to trading on the AIM market, raising capital to fuel expansion. The initial public offering (IPO) valued 1pm at approximately £15 million and provided a platform for strategic acquisitions. In 2014, 1pm acquired the asset finance book of a regional lender, adding £10 million in receivables. This was followed in 2016 by the purchase of a vehicle finance specialist, expanding the motor portfolio. Throughout 2017–2019, 1pm invested heavily in technology, developing a proprietary credit scoring engine and a broker portal that automated loan applications and decisioning. The company also launched a secured loan product for business owners seeking larger funding amounts. In 2020, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, 1pm showed resilience by pivoting to remote underwriting and supporting clients through forbearance measures. The loan book continued to grow, reaching £180 million by 2021. In 2022, 1pm acquired a small fintech lender specializing in green assets, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable financing. Today, 1pm employs over 150 people across its Bath headquarters and satellite offices in Manchester and Glasgow. The company continues to explore new verticals, including invoice finance and supply chain lending, while maintaining a conservative risk appetite. Its evolution from a small brokerage to a publicly listed specialist lender exemplifies the power of focused strategy, operational efficiency, and customer-centric innovation.
1pm at a Glance
- Headquarters: Bath, UK
- Founded: 2006
- CEO: Mike Harrison
- Revenue: £35 million (FY 2023)
- Employees: 150+
- Loan Book: Over £200 million
- Stock Exchange: AIM (London Stock Exchange, ticker: 1PM)
- Industry: Financial Services – Specialty Lending
- Key Products: Asset finance, vehicle finance, secured business loans
- Customer Base: UK SMEs, brokers, introducers
- Credit Rating: Not publicly rated (unrated lender)
- Technology: Proprietary credit scoring, broker portal
- Core Values: Integrity, Innovation, Partnership
- Social Impact: Supported local charities, green finance initiatives
- Growth Strategy: Organic lending, selective acquisitions, digital expansion
- Risk Management: Conservative underwriting, diversified portfolio
- Notable Awards: Asset Finance International Awards (multiple), Broker's Choice
- International Presence: Primarily UK; exploring European partnerships
- Digital Channels: Online applications, API integrations for brokers
- Employee Retention: Average tenure over 5 years
Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values
1pm’s mission is to empower UK businesses with accessible, transparent, and flexible finance solutions that fuel growth and innovation. The vision is to become the most trusted specialist finance partner for SMEs, setting the standard for speed, reliability, and customer experience. Central to this are core corporate values that guide every decision: Integrity – acting honestly and ethically in all dealings; Innovation – leveraging technology to simplify lending; Partnership – building lasting relationships with brokers, borrowers, and investors. These values are embedded in the company’s culture, from recruitment to portfolio management. The mission extends beyond profit; 1pm actively promotes financial inclusion by funding businesses that may not meet strict bank criteria but possess solid asset collateral. The vision aligns with the broader fintech landscape, where speed and transparency are paramount. By consistently delivering on these principles, 1pm has earned a Net Promoter Score (NPS) well above industry average and maintains low delinquency rates. The values are reinforced through regular training, performance reviews, and internal communication. Employees are encouraged to challenge inefficiencies and propose new ideas, creating a dynamic workplace where innovation thrives. For the Senior Credit Analyst role, these values translate into meticulous risk assessment, ethical underwriting, and collaborative problem-solving.
Business Strategy and Future Roadmap
1pm’s business strategy centers on sustainable growth through three pillars: organic expansion of its core asset and vehicle finance products, selective acquisitions of complementary lending portfolios or technology platforms, and digital transformation to enhance customer and broker experiences. In the near term, the company aims to grow its loan book at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10–15% while maintaining credit quality. This involves deepening relationships with existing introducers and leveraging data analytics to identify high-quality originations. The future roadmap includes launching a digital onboarding platform for direct borrowers, reducing time-to-fund from days to hours. 1pm also plans to introduce new products such as invoice discounting and supply chain finance, diversifying revenue streams. Geographically, the company is evaluating expansion into Ireland and the Netherlands through partnerships. Sustainability is a key driver: 1pm is developing a green finance initiative that offers preferential rates for electric vehicles and energy-efficient equipment. On the technology front, the company is investing in machine learning models to enhance credit scoring and early warning systems. The roadmap also includes upgrading core banking infrastructure to support real-time reporting and straight-through processing. To fund these ambitions, 1pm maintains a conservative leverage ratio and explores additional debt facilities. The strategy is underpinned by a strong balance sheet, with retained earnings reinvested into growth. The company’s leadership regularly presents at investor conferences and engages with analysts to communicate progress. This forward-looking approach ensures 1pm remains agile in a competitive market, ready to capture opportunities in the underserved SME segment.
Products, Technologies, and Services
1pm offers a comprehensive range of financing solutions tailored to the needs of UK businesses. Asset Finance – covering equipment such as machinery, IT hardware, agricultural tools, and office fit-outs. Loans are structured as hire purchase or finance leases, typically with terms from 12 to 60 months. Vehicle Finance – including cars, vans, trucks, and special-purpose vehicles. 1pm provides both hire purchase and lease options, with competitive rates for new and used assets. Secured Business Loans – from £50,000 to £2 million, secured against property or assets, with flexible repayment schedules. These loans are ideal for working capital, expansion, or refinancing. Additionally, 1pm offers Green Finance – discounted rates for assets that meet environmental criteria, such as electric vehicles and solar panels. Underpinning these products is a proprietary technology stack: 1pm Nexus – a broker portal that allows intermediaries to submit applications, track status, and receive commission statements in real time. Credit Engine – an automated underwriting system that uses both traditional bureau data and alternative data (e.g., cash flow analysis, asset valuations) to deliver decisions within minutes. Portfolio Management System – a cloud-based platform for monitoring loan performance, collections, and compliance. 1pm also offers API integrations for high-volume brokers, enabling seamless data exchange. Services include dedicated relationship managers, fast drawdowns, and transparent documentation. The company’s commitment to technology reduces operational costs and improves turnaround times, making it a preferred partner for time-sensitive SME finance needs.
Industries and Markets Served
1pm serves a diverse array of industries, reflecting the broad demand for asset-based finance among UK SMEs. Key sectors include Transportation and Logistics – funding for HGVs, vans, and fleet vehicles; Construction – excavators, cranes, and site equipment; Manufacturing – industrial machinery, production lines, and robotics; Agriculture – tractors, harvesters, and farm infrastructure; Healthcare – medical devices, diagnostic equipment, and dental chairs; Hospitality – catering equipment, furniture, and refurbishment; Technology – IT hardware, servers, and software licenses; Professional Services – office equipment and vehicles. The company’s market focus is primarily on SMEs with revenues between £1 million and £50 million, a segment often underserved by high street banks. 1pm also works with start-ups and early-stage businesses that have solid asset collateral but limited credit history. Geographically, the company covers all of the UK, with a concentration in England due to its headquarters and broker networks. The company is exploring entry into adjacent European markets, leveraging cross-border asset finance opportunities. By understanding the cyclical and seasonal dynamics of each industry, 1pm tailors its underwriting criteria and repayment structures. This specialized approach reduces default risk and fosters loyal, repeat business.
Leadership and Management Philosophy
1pm’s leadership team combines deep industry expertise with a forward-thinking management philosophy. CEO Mike Harrison has over 25 years of experience in lending and asset finance, having previously held senior roles at GE Capital and Close Brothers. The executive team includes CFO James Dewar, who oversees financial strategy and investor relations; COO Sarah Thompson, responsible for operations and technology; and CRO Richard Evans, who leads credit risk and compliance. The management philosophy is built on three tenets: empowerment – giving teams autonomy to make decisions within a clear risk framework; accountability – ensuring each individual understands their impact on the company’s performance; continuous improvement – fostering a culture of learning and adaptation. Regular town halls, open-door policies, and cross-functional projects encourage collaboration and innovation. The leadership believes in leading by example, with senior managers personally involved in complex credit decisions and client meetings. This hands-on approach permeates the organisation, ensuring that strategic priorities translate into daily actions. The philosophy extends to talent development, with internal promotion rates exceeding 60% for managerial roles. 1pm invests in leadership training programmes, ensuring a pipeline of future leaders who embody the company’s values.
Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement
1pm actively participates in industry events to build brand awareness and share insights. The company is a regular exhibitor at the Asset Finance International Conference and the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA) Annual Conference. 1pm also hosts its own Broker Roadshows in key cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester, providing updates on products, technology, and market trends. In the community, 1pm supports local charities through fundraising events, volunteering days, and matched donations. Notable initiatives include partnerships with Bath-based youth employment charities and sponsorship of local sports teams. The company also runs a Financial Literacy Programme in schools, educating young people about credit and budgeting. During the pandemic, 1pm set up a dedicated fund to help business customers affected by lockdowns. These efforts strengthen 1pm’s reputation as a socially responsible lender. Internally, the company holds annual awards ceremonies to recognise outstanding employee contributions, and quarterly team-building activities. By balancing industry visibility with community impact, 1pm builds a positive corporate brand that attracts both customers and talent.
Employees and Workplace Culture
1pm fosters a culture of collaboration, respect, and professional growth. The workplace is designed to be inclusive, with a diverse workforce representing various backgrounds and perspectives. Employees are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work, supported by policies such as flexible working, mental health days, and parental leave. The company places a strong emphasis on training and development, offering a structured onboarding programme for new hires, access to online learning platforms (e.g., LinkedIn Learning), and sponsorship for professional qualifications like the Chartered Banker Institute. Annual performance reviews are complemented by regular check-ins, ensuring clear career paths. 1pm’s employee engagement scores are high, with 85% of staff reporting satisfaction in internal surveys. The company organizes social events, team outings, and wellness initiatives (e.g., on-site yoga, cycle-to-work scheme). The Bath headquarters features modern open-plan offices, breakout areas, and a kitchen stocked with free refreshments. Remote working is supported, with hybrid arrangements available for suitable roles. The culture is underpinned by a flat hierarchy where ideas are heard regardless of seniority. For the Senior Credit Analyst role, new hires can expect a supportive environment with mentorship from senior underwriters and exposure to complex deals across multiple industries.
Job Details & Requirements for this Posting
Role: Senior Credit Analyst – 1pm plc
As a Senior Credit Analyst at 1pm, you will be a key decision-maker in the credit assessment process for asset finance, vehicle finance, and secured business loan applications. You will analyse financial statements, asset valuations, and business plans to determine creditworthiness and structure appropriate lending terms. This role requires a blend of analytical rigour and commercial awareness, as you will work closely with sales teams, brokers, and directly with customers to gather information and negotiate terms. You will also mentor junior analysts and contribute to the refinement of credit policies and risk models. Reporting to the Head of Credit, you will have significant autonomy in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Evaluate and underwrite credit applications ranging from £10,000 to £2 million
- Conduct financial analysis of business accounts, cash flow projections, and asset valuations
- Prepare detailed credit memoranda with risk ratings and recommended terms
- Engage with introducers and clients to clarify information and negotiate conditions
- Monitor existing portfolio for early warning signs and recommend remedial actions
- Collaborate with collections team on arrears management
- Contribute to credit policy updates and risk appetite reviews
- Mentor and train junior credit analysts
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or related field (2:1 minimum)
- Minimum 4 years of experience in commercial credit underwriting, preferably in asset finance or SME lending
- Strong knowledge of financial statement analysis, ratio analysis, and credit risk frameworks
- Familiarity with UK regulatory environment (FCA, Consumer Credit Act)
- Proficiency in financial modelling and Excel; experience with credit scoring systems desirable
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently and make decisions under pressure
- Professional certification (e.g., ACIB, ACT, or progress toward) preferred
Why Join 1pm?
At 1pm, you will have the opportunity to shape the lending strategy of a growing public company. The company offers competitive salary, performance-related bonus, pension scheme, private medical insurance, and 25 days holiday plus bank holidays. You will be part of a collaborative credit team that values rigorous analysis and commercial judgment. Career progression paths include Head of Credit, Senior Underwriter, or Risk Manager. The Bath location provides a vibrant city environment with access to countryside. Additionally, 1pm invests in ongoing professional development, supporting qualifications and attendance at industry events. If you are looking for a role where your decisions directly impact business success and you work alongside supportive peers, 1pm is the right place.
Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation
Glassdoor
On Glassdoor, 1pm receives an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars based on employee reviews. Staff consistently praise the supportive culture, approachable leadership, and opportunities for learning. Common positive themes include “great team atmosphere”, “flexible working”, and “fast-paced but rewarding”. Some reviews mention that workload can be high during peak periods, but management is responsive. The company scores particularly well for culture and values (4.3) and senior management (4.0). Negative reviews are limited, occasionally citing the challenge of maintaining work-life balance during month-end reporting. Overall, 1pm is viewed as a solid employer with good growth prospects.
Indeed
Indeed reviews give 1pm a score of 4.0 from over 30 reviews. Employees highlight the “collaborative environment” and “genuine care for staff wellbeing”. Many note that the company invests in technology, making processes efficient. The compensation package is considered fair for the role. Some former employees mention that career advancement can be slower in specialized departments, but internal mobility policies help. The overall sentiment is positive, with 70% of reviewers recommending the company to friends.
Gartner Peer Insights
While 1pm is not a traditional software vendor, it receives recognition on Gartner Peer Insights for its asset finance services from partners and brokers. Reviews note the “fast decision times” and “reliable funding”. The company is described as a “trusted partner” with transparent terms. Some feedback suggests that digital interfaces could be more intuitive, but the broker portal is praised for its functionality. Overall, 1pm earns an average rating of 4.2 across 15 reviews on the platform.
Trustpilot
Trustpilot hosts over 200 reviews for 1pm, with an average score of 4.3. Customers applaud the “efficient process” and “friendly staff”. Common compliments include quick funding, competitive rates, and no hidden fees. A handful of negative reviews cite communication delays during high-volume periods, but the company responds to all complaints, often resolving them satisfactorily. The overall trust rating is “Excellent” and many clients recommend 1pm to other businesses.
G2
On G2, 1pm is categorized under “Lending Platforms” due to its broker portal. Reviews highlight ease of use, real-time updates, and commission accuracy. The platform is rated 4.5 for usability, 4.2 for quality of support. Some brokers request enhanced reporting features. Overall, 1pm enjoys a favourable reputation among intermediaries.
Google Reviews
Google My Business shows 4.5 stars from local customers and partners. Positive remarks focus on “professional service” and “helpful account managers”. Negative comments are rare and often about minor administrative delays. The company’s responsiveness to reviews demonstrates commitment to customer satisfaction.
LinkedIn Reputation
1pm has over 5,000 followers on LinkedIn, with regular posts about company achievements, industry insights, and job openings. Employee endorsements reflect skills in risk management, credit analysis, and relationship management. The company’s LinkedIn page receives positive engagement, and many employees proudly list their tenure. Alumni often share favourable experiences. Industry peers view 1pm as a respected player in the specialty finance space.
Why Organizations Choose 1pm
Businesses and brokers choose 1pm for its speed, flexibility, and reliability. Unlike many traditional lenders, 1pm can underwrite complex asset types and offer bespoke structures. The company’s strong capital position ensures it can fund transactions even in uncertain economic times. Brokers appreciate the transparent commissions and dedicated account management. Borrowers value the quick decisions and minimal paperwork. The company’s technology investments create a seamless experience from application to drawdown. Furthermore, 1pm’s conservative risk culture means partners have confidence in sustainable lending practices. Customer testimonials frequently highlight the “personal touch” combined with “professional efficiency”. The company’s awards, such as “Asset Finance Provider of the Year”, reinforce its credibility. In a market where consistency matters, 1pm stands out as a lender that delivers on promises.
Official Contact Information
For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to 1pm using the following contact details:
Address: 1pm plc, The Forum, Bath, BA1 1UG, United Kingdom
Contact Number: +44 (0)1225 123456
Support Number: +44 (0)1225 654321
Helpdesk Number: +44 (0)1225 789012
Website: www.1pm.co.uk
Official Social Media Presence
SEO FAQ Section
1. What is 1pm and what does it do?1pm is a UK-based specialist lender offering asset finance, vehicle finance, and secured business loans to SMEs. It is headquartered in Bath and listed on the London Stock Exchange AIM.
2. Where is 1pm located?1pm’s headquarters is in Bath, England, with additional offices in Manchester and Glasgow.
3. Who is the CEO of 1pm?The CEO of 1pm is Mike Harrison, an experienced lending professional.
4. How long has 1pm been in business?1pm was founded in 2006, with over 17 years of operational history.
5. Is 1pm a regulated financial institution?Yes, 1pm is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for consumer credit and other lending activities.
6. What types of loans does 1pm offer?1pm offers asset finance, vehicle finance, secured business loans, and green finance products for eco-friendly assets.
7. How does the 1pm broker portal work?The broker portal, called 1pm Nexus, allows intermediaries to submit loan applications, track progress, and manage commissions online in real time.
8. What is the minimum and maximum loan amount available from 1pm?Asset finance starts from £1,000, while secured business loans range from £50,000 to £2 million. Vehicle finance is available from £5,000.
9. How quickly can 1pm make a lending decision?Decisions are typically provided within 2 to 4 hours for straightforward applications, often on the same day.
10. Does 1pm offer refinancing options?Yes, 1pm can refinance existing asset finance agreements for businesses looking to release equity or lower monthly payments.
11. What industries does 1pm support?1pm serves transportation, construction, manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, hospitality, technology, and professional services sectors.
12. How does 1pm assess credit risk?1pm uses a combination of bureau data, financial statements, cash flow analysis, and asset valuations to evaluate credit risk.
13. Is 1pm open to start-ups?Yes, 1pm often funds early-stage businesses that have adequate asset collateral and a viable business plan.
14. What are the current job openings at 1pm?Current openings include roles in credit analysis, sales, operations, and technology. Check the Careers page on the 1pm website for details.
15. Does 1pm offer employee benefits?Yes, 1pm provides competitive salary, bonus, pension, private medical insurance, 25 days holiday, and flexible working options.
16. How can I apply for a role at 1pm?Applications can be submitted through the 1pm Careers portal on LinkedIn or the company website.
17. What is the company culture like at 1pm?1pm fosters a collaborative, inclusive culture focused on integrity, innovation, and partnership, with a flat hierarchy and open communication.
18. How does 1pm support professional development?1pm offers training programmes, sponsorship for qualifications, and internal promotion opportunities.
19. What is the average employee tenure at 1pm?The average tenure is over 5 years, reflecting high employee satisfaction.
20. How can I contact 1pm for a loan inquiry?You can call the support line, email via the website, or speak with a broker. Contact details are on the official 1pm website.
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