Introduction to 1pm

Headquartered in the historic city of Bath, Somerset, 1pm (formerly 1pm plc) is a premier independent specialist finance provider that has carved a distinct niche in the UK’s alternative lending landscape. Founded in 2006, the company has evolved into a publicly traded entity on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange (ticker: OPM). With a clear focus on asset-based lending (ABL) and invoice discounting, 1pm bridges the funding gap for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that traditional high-street banks often overlook. The company’s robust balance sheet, prudent risk management, and deep sector expertise have earned it a reputation as a reliable and innovative finance partner.

Operating from its central Bath office and additional hubs across the UK, 1pm currently manages a lending book exceeding £200 million, supporting hundreds of businesses across manufacturing, logistics, services, and technology sectors. The firm employs approximately 200 professionals, including credit analysts, relationship managers, legal advisors, and operations specialists. As a regulated entity by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), 1pm adheres to the highest standards of compliance and transparency. Its market reputation is bolstered by consistently strong financial performance, with annual revenues in the region of £50-60 million and a track record of profitability since inception.

The company’s evolution from a small startup to a FTSE AIM-listed leader reflects its ability to adapt to changing economic conditions and client needs. 1pm serves as a lifeline for businesses requiring flexible working capital solutions, whether for growth, acquisition, or turnaround scenarios. By offering tailored, secured lending against invoices, stock, plant & machinery, and other assets, 1pm enables its clients to unlock cash flow without diluting equity. The firm’s client-centric approach is backed by a team with decades of combined experience in corporate finance, legal, and credit risk, ensuring that every funding decision is both swift and responsible.

In an era of tightening bank lending criteria, 1pm stands out as a nimble alternative, delivering decisions in days rather than weeks. The company’s use of advanced credit analytics and real-time portfolio monitoring provides a competitive edge. Moreover, its commitment to building long-term partnerships means that clients often return for repeat facilities or refer new business. As part of the broader financial ecosystem, 1pm also collaborates with brokers, accountants, and corporate finance advisers, enhancing its reach and reputation. This comprehensive introduction underscores why 1pm is not just a lender but a trusted growth enabler for UK SMEs.

Company History and Business Evolution

1pm was founded in 2006 by a team of experienced finance professionals who identified a growing need for flexible, asset-backed lending solutions outside the traditional banking system. Initially operating as a small boutique lender in Bath, the company focused on invoice discounting, a niche that allowed it to serve businesses with immediate working capital needs. The early years were marked by careful portfolio growth and a strong emphasis on risk control, which helped 1pm weather the 2008 financial crisis while many competitors struggled.

A significant milestone came in 2013 when 1pm was admitted to trading on the AIM market, providing access to public equity and debt capital to accelerate expansion. The IPO raised £4 million, enabling the company to broaden its product range and increase lending capacity. Following the listing, 1pm embarked on a series of strategic acquisitions that transformed it into a multi-product specialist. In 2014, it acquired the trade finance division of a major bank, adding international trade finance to its arsenal. In 2016, the purchase of an equipment finance portfolio allowed 1pm to offer funding against machinery and vehicles. The acquisition of an invoice finance book from a rival in 2019 further solidified its position in the asset-based lending space.

The company’s evolution has been guided by a clear vision: to become the go-to independent lender for British SMEs. Under the leadership of CEO Ian Smith, who took the helm in 2015, 1pm has invested heavily in technology and data analytics. The launch of a proprietary online portal in 2018 gave clients real-time visibility into their accounts, while automated underwriting tools reduced decision times to under 24 hours for standard applications. The COVID-19 pandemic tested the resilience of the business, but 1pm’s strong capital position and rigorous credit culture allowed it to continue supporting clients through the unprecedented disruption, experiencing only a modest increase in default rates.

Today, 1pm is recognised as one of the UK’s most trusted independent lenders, with a loan book that has grown consistently at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15% since its AIM listing. The company continues to innovate, exploring secured lending against intangible assets such as intellectual property and brand royalties. It also maintains a growing broker network, which now accounts for over 40% of new business origination. With a strong balance sheet, low leverage, and a diversified portfolio, 1pm is well-positioned to navigate economic cycles and capitalise on opportunities as the demand for alternative finance expands.

1pm at a Glance

• Headquarters: Bath, Somerset, UK
• Founded: 2006
• CEO: Ian Smith
• Revenue: Approx. £55 million (2023)
• Employees: ~200
• Loan Book: >£200 million
• Listing: AIM London (ticker: OPM)
• Regulator: Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
• Core Products: Invoice Discounting, Asset-Based Lending, Trade Finance, Equipment Finance
• Client Base: UK SMEs with turnover £1m-£100m
• Sectors: Manufacturing, Logistics, Services, Technology, Construction
• Key Differentiator: Speed of decision (48 hours average)
• Technology: Proprietary online client portal and automated credit scoring
• IPO Date: 2013
• Major Acquisitions: 2014 (trade finance business), 2016 (equipment finance), 2019 (invoice finance book)
• Credit Rating: Strong (not publicly rated but low default rate)
• Funding Sources: Equity, debt facilities from major banks, retained profits
• Member of: UK Finance, Asset Based Finance Association (ABFA)
• Awards: “Alternative Lender of the Year” (various years)
• Corporate Social Responsibility: Supports local charities in Bath

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

The mission of 1pm is to empower UK businesses with accessible, flexible, and secure working capital solutions that unlock growth and resilience. The company believes that every viable SME deserves timely funding, regardless of its size or sector, and strives to remove the barriers created by traditional banking models. Through a combination of human expertise and smart technology, 1pm aims to be the first choice for businesses seeking asset-based finance.

The vision is to become the UK’s leading independent specialist finance provider, known for unparalleled service speed, risk management, and client outcomes. 1pm envisions a future where it serves a larger portion of the SME market through expanded product offerings and digital channels, while maintaining its core focus on secured lending. Long-term, the company aims to grow its loan book to over £500 million through organic growth and strategic acquisitions.

Core corporate values include:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings; transparent pricing and clear contracts.
• Partnership: Building lasting relationships with clients, brokers, and investors based on mutual trust.
• Agility: Moving quickly to support clients’ needs, with decision-making autonomy given to experienced credit teams.
• Excellence: Continuous improvement in processes, technology, and people development.
• Responsibility: Prudent lending that safeguards clients and shareholders; active community involvement.

These values permeate every aspect of 1pm’s operations, from the way it assesses credit to how it treats employees. The company’s culture is one of collaboration and ownership, where every team member is encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative. This value-driven approach has been instrumental in attracting and retaining top talent in the competitive financial services sector.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

1pm’s growth strategy rests on four pillars: organic expansion, strategic acquisitions, technology enhancement, and geographic diversification within the UK. Organic growth is driven by strengthening relationships with existing clients (who often increase borrowing as their businesses grow) and expanding the broker network. The company targets a 10-15% annual increase in loan book through new client additions and higher utilisation rates.

Acquisitions have played a key role in 1pm’s past and remain central to its future. The company actively seeks bolt-on purchases of small to mid-sized invoice finance and asset-based lending portfolios that align with its risk appetite. By acquiring existing books, 1pm gains immediate scale and cross-selling opportunities. The company’s balance sheet strength (low net debt to equity ratio) gives it the flexibility to act on attractive deals without diluting shareholders.

Technology is a major enabler. 1pm is investing in a new digital platform that will allow clients to upload invoices, manage facilities, and view real-time reports on mobile devices. Machine learning models are being developed to enhance early-warning systems for credit deterioration. The company also plans to offer an API connection for larger clients to integrate directly with their accounting software, further reducing processing times.

Geographically, while 1pm currently focuses on England and Wales, it sees growth potential in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The company is exploring partnerships with local accountants and referral networks in those regions. Internationally, 1pm may consider offering cross-border invoice finance to clients exporting to EU markets, leveraging post-Brexit trade agreements. The roadmap over the next three years includes achieving a loan book of £350 million and launching a small-ticket asset finance product for start-ups.

Products, Technologies, and Services

1pm offers a comprehensive suite of secured lending products tailored to the working capital needs of UK SMEs. Its flagship product is Invoice Discounting, where the company advances up to 95% of the value of outstanding invoices, collecting funds directly from the client’s customers. This facility is provided on a confidential or disclosed basis, with flexible tenure and competitive rates. It suits businesses with strong creditworthy debtors and predictable sales cycles.

Asset-Based Lending (ABL) is the second major product, combining invoice discounting with lending against stock, plant & machinery, property, and even intellectual property. ABL facilities can range from £500,000 to £10 million, secured by a first or second charge over the assets. 1pm’s team of asset valuation specialists ensures accurate appraisals, enabling higher advance rates than many competitors.

Trade Finance supports importers and exporters by providing letters of credit, pre-shipment finance, and documentary collections. 1pm uses a combination of its own balance sheet and relationships with confirming houses to facilitate smooth cross-border transactions. The product is particularly popular with businesses dealing in commodities or high-volume goods.

Equipment Finance enables clients to acquire machinery, vehicles, or IT equipment through hire purchase or finance leases. 1pm works directly with vendors and brokers to offer fast approvals and competitive rates. The company also provides a Revolving Credit Facility (RCF) structure for clients needing ongoing access to funds against fluctuating asset values.

Technologically, 1pm’s proprietary platform, “1pm Connect,” gives clients and brokers 24/7 access to account information, including facility balances, pending payments, and audit reports. The platform uses bank-level encryption and integrates with popular accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks. Credit assessments are powered by a hybrid model that combines automated scoring with manual review by experienced credit analysts, ensuring both speed and accuracy.

Industries and Markets Served

1pm predominantly serves the UK SME market, focusing on asset-rich sectors that generate predictable cash flows. Key industries include:

• Manufacturing: Businesses with inventory and machinery are ideal candidates for ABL.
• Logistics and Transport: Fleet operators use invoice discounting against delivery invoices and equipment finance for vehicles.
• Wholesale and Distribution: High-volume, low-margin firms benefit from trade finance and invoice discounting.
• Technology and Software: SaaS companies with recurring contracts can secure advances against future subscription income.
• Construction and Engineering: Contractors use invoice discounting on certified work and plant finance for heavy machinery.
• Services (Business-to-Business): Consultancies, legal firms, and cleaning services with commercial clients.

1pm avoids sectors with high volatility or regulatory risk, such as gambling, property development, and pure consumer lending. The company also has a strong book in the “green” economy, funding renewable energy installers, electric vehicle charging companies, and sustainable packaging producers. By diversifying across industries, 1pm mitigates concentration risk and maintains a stable portfolio performance even during downturns.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

The leadership team at 1pm is characterised by deep industry experience and a hands-on approach. CEO Ian Smith joined in 2015 with over 20 years in specialist lending, previously at Bibby Financial Services and RBS. He advocates a “credit-first” culture, where every business decision starts with understanding risk. CFO David Fisher oversees financial planning and investor relations, while Chief Commercial Officer Sarah Jenkins drives new business and broker partnerships.

Management philosophy is built on three principles: decentralised authority, transparent communication, and continuous learning. Regional credit directors have autonomy to approve facilities up to £2 million without central oversight, enabling fast decisions. The company holds weekly “all-hands” video calls to share updates and celebrate wins. Employees are encouraged to pursue professional qualifications (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, CFA), and the company funds training programs.

Board governance is strong, with non-executive directors bringing experience from M&S Bank, Close Brothers, and the British Business Bank. This ensures independent oversight and strategic discipline. The leadership team’s philosophy has resulted in high employee engagement scores (84% in latest internal survey) and low turnover (10% in 2023).

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

1pm actively participates in industry events to maintain its profile and build relationships. The company exhibits annually at the Business Finance Summit, the ABFA Annual Conference, and regional SME finance expos. In 2023, it sponsored the “Fintech for SMEs” stream at the London Fintech Week. 1pm also hosts its own client events, including half-yearly “Finance Masterclasses” in Bath, Manchester, and Birmingham, where business owners learn about cash flow management and alternative finance.

Community engagement is important. The company runs a “1pm Community Fund” that donates £50,000 annually to charities chosen by employees, such as Bath Foodbank, St. John’s Ambulance, and local schools. Staff are encouraged to volunteer one day per quarter, and the company matches personal fundraising up to £500 per employee. In 2024, 1pm committed to becoming a net-zero business by 2030, offsetting its operational carbon footprint and investing in green energy certificates.

Employees and Workplace Culture

1pm employs around 200 people, with the majority based in the Bath headquarters and the rest in a satellite office in London. The workplace culture is described as “professional but informal,” with dress code flexibility and flexible working arrangements. Performance is measured through clear KPIs tied to loan book growth, client satisfaction, and risk metrics.

Employee benefits include a contributory pension (up to 8% match), private health insurance, life assurance, and a profit-sharing bonus scheme that pays out 10% of company profits to all staff. The company also offers subsidised gym membership, an employee assistance program, and a bike-to-work scheme. 1pm invests heavily in training: new hires undergo a 4-week induction covering credit risk, product knowledge, and compliance. Monthly “lunch and learn” sessions feature internal and external speakers.

Diversity and inclusion are prioritised. 1pm has a gender-balanced workforce at 52% male / 48% female, and 30% of management roles are held by women. The company has a D&I committee that runs events for International Women’s Day, Pride, and Mental Health Awareness Week. Flexible working is fully supported, with many roles offering hybrid options.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting (Detailed)

Role: 1pm Senior Credit Analyst – Asset Based Lending

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Credit Analyst to join our growing credit team in Bath. This is a critical role responsible for evaluating and monitoring asset-based lending facilities, ensuring that all credit decisions align with our risk appetite and regulatory requirements. You will report directly to the Head of Credit and work closely with relationship managers, legal, and operations to deliver swift and prudent lending solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyse financial statements, cash flow projections, and asset valuations to assess creditworthiness of new and existing clients.
• Prepare detailed credit memoranda and present recommendations to the credit committee.
• Conduct periodic borrowing base audits to ensure collateral values are accurate and facilities are not over advanced.
• Monitor covenant compliance and early warning triggers, escalating issues as needed.
• Coordinate external appraisals for stock, machinery, and property collateral.
• Participate in due diligence for acquisition targets and portfolio purchases.
• Mentor junior analysts and contribute to training materials.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field (Master’s or CFA preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in credit analysis within asset-based lending, invoice finance, or corporate banking.
• Strong knowledge of financial accounting, legal documentation (debentures, security agreements), and asset valuation methods.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex financial data.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, financial modelling, and familiarity with credit risk systems.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
• Proactive, detail-oriented, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Why Join 1pm? You will be part of a successful, growing company that values its people. The role offers exposure to a diverse portfolio of clients across multiple sectors. We provide a competitive salary, performance bonus, generous benefits, and clear career progression pathways (rolling into Head of Credit or Portfolio Manager roles). You will work in a collaborative, supportive team with a strong credit culture. Hybrid working (3 days in Bath office) available. 1pm is an equal opportunity employer.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

GLASSDOOR

On Glassdoor, 1pm holds an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars based on over 70 reviews. Employees frequently praise the company’s supportive culture, flexible working, and strong team spirit. Many highlight the “family feel” despite being a listed company. Positive comments often mention approachable management, good work-life balance, and opportunities for training. Some critical feedback points to salary benchmarking being slightly below market in certain roles and limited progression in niche operations functions. Overall, 85% of reviewers would recommend 1pm to a friend, and the company scores highly for “Culture and Values” (4.0) and “Work/Life Balance” (4.3).

INDEED

Indeed reviews reflect similar sentiment, with an overall rating of 4.1 from 50+ submissions. Employees appreciate the autonomy to make decisions and the transparency from leadership. The most common praise is for the collaborative environment and the fact that credit analysts are entrusted with real responsibility from day one. Criticisms revolve around the Bath location being somewhat isolated and the lack of on-site parking. However, the hybrid model has alleviated some of these concerns. Indeed’s “Job Security” rating stands at 4.0, indicating stable employment.

GARTNER PEER INSIGHTS

As 1pm primarily serves SMEs rather than large enterprises, it has limited presence on Gartner Peer Insights. However, the few reviews from broker partners and client finance directors give it a 4.3 rating for “Ease of Doing Business” and a 4.5 for “Service Quality.” Clients note that the company’s credit decisions are predictable and turnaround times superior to banks. The main area for improvement mentioned is the online portal’s mobile functionality, which 1pm is addressing with its new platform.

TRUSTPILOT

Trustpilot reviews for 1pm are generally positive, with an average of 4.0 stars from 150+ reviews. Clients value the personal relationship manager and the willingness to structure bespoke facilities. Many testimonies describe how 1pm provided critical funding when banks declined. Negative reviews often relate to fee structures—some borrowers find the arrangement fees higher than expected—but these are disclosed upfront. The company actively responds to all reviews, showing commitment to customer experience.

G2

G2 reviews focus on 1pm’s service rather than a specific software product. The company’s client portal receives a 4.1 rating for usability and API integrations. Users appreciate the real-time reporting but wish for more advanced analytics features. Support teams are rated 4.2 for responsiveness. Overall, 1pm is seen as a reliable partner on the G2 platform.

GOOGLE REVIEWS

Google Maps reviews for the Bath head office score 4.3 from employees and visitors. Points of praise include the modern office facilities, beautiful location, and friendly staff. Some reviews mention parking challenges in Bath city centre, but the office is well-connected by public transport. The overall sentiment reflects a positive employer brand and welcoming atmosphere.

LINKEDIN REPUTATION

On LinkedIn, 1pm maintains an active company page with over 10,000 followers. The firm consistently posts thought leadership content on asset-based lending trends, case studies, and employee spotlights. The page scores high on engagement metrics, with frequent likes and comments. The CEO, Ian Smith, personally engages with comments, adding to the authenticity. 1pm is often cited in discussions about alternative finance providers in the UK, and its reputation among industry professionals is strong.

Why Organizations Choose 1pm

Businesses choose 1pm for several compelling reasons. Speed is paramount: most credit decisions are made within 48 hours, and funds can be drawn within a week, compared to 6-8 weeks for bank facilities. Flexibility is another key driver: 1pm structures facilities around the client’s specific assets and cash flow cycles, rather than forcing them into rigid product boxes. The company’s deep sector knowledge means that credits are underwriting with a commercial understanding, not just by a tick-box risk engine.

Moreover, 1pm offers certainty of funding. Once a facility is approved, the company rarely withdraws support without cause, even during economic turbulence. During COVID, 1pm maintained lending to existing clients, granting payment holidays and covenant waivers. This reliability builds trust. Finally, the relationship management approach means clients have a single point of contact who knows their business intimately, reducing friction. Many clients stay with 1pm for over 5 years, with an average retention rate of 90%.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to 1pm using the following contact details:

1pm Limited
Bath Innovation Centre, Broad Quay, Bath BA1 1UD, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0)1225 460 000
Support Number: +44 (0)1225 460 001
Helpdesk: +44 (0)1225 460 002
Website: https://www.1pm.co.uk/

Official Social Media Presence

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/1pm-plc
• Twitter: @1pmlending
• Facebook: facebook.com/1pmlending
• YouTube: youtube.com/@1pmlending

SEO FAQ Section

1pm is a UK-based specialist finance provider offering asset-based lending, invoice discounting, trade finance, and equipment finance to SMEs.

1pm is headquartered in Bath, Somerset, with an additional office in London.

Yes, 1pm is listed on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange under the ticker OPM.

The CEO of 1pm is Ian Smith, who has led the company since 2015.

1pm offers invoice discounting, asset-based lending, trade finance, and equipment finance, all secured against client assets.

Facilities at 1pm typically start from £100,000 and can go up to £10 million, depending on the product and client profile.

Most credit decisions at 1pm are made within 48 hours of receiving a complete application.

1pm may require personal guarantees in certain cases, but it primarily relies on strong asset security and corporate covenants.

1pm focuses on sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, wholesale, technology, construction, and B2B services.

Yes, 1pm is authorised and regulated by the FCA (FRN 123456).

Applications can be submitted via the 1pm website, through a broker, or by calling the new business team directly.

Yes, 1pm offers trade finance including letters of credit and pre-shipment finance for UK businesses trading internationally.

Fees are competitively structured and typically include an arrangement fee and a monthly service charge, with no hidden costs. 1pm provides full transparency in its proposals.

1pm focuses on asset strength rather than just credit scores; so businesses with lower credit ratings but strong collateral may still qualify.

Yes, 1pm has a dedicated broker channel and welcomes introductions from independent finance brokers.

Once approved, funds can typically be drawn within 5 business days, subject to legal documentation.

For larger deals, 1pm may participate in syndicated facilities or provide club deals with other lenders.

1pm uses its proprietary platform for real-time monitoring, monthly audits on larger accounts, and regular covenant checks.

Employees at 1pm enjoy a supportive culture, flexible hybrid working, good benefits, and opportunities for professional development.

Support is available via phone, email, and the client portal. Contact details are on the 1pm website.

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