Matthew Wilde Appointed Managing Director of SWIG Finance

Leadership Change at SWIG Finance

SWIG Finance, based in Truro, has appointed Matthew Wilde as its new Managing Director.

Matthew, who describes himself as a people-person and problem solver, steps into the role following the long-standing leadership of John Peters. John has been with the SWIG Group since 1998 and has led SWIG Finance since 2013. He will continue to support the organisation as Executive Director until March 2026.

Under John’s leadership, SWIG Finance expanded its regional footprint, tripled its headcount and increased turnover from £327k to £3 million. The business also secured high-profile contracts, including delivering Small Loans for the British Business Bank’s South West Investment Fund and receiving a £10 million capital boost through the Community Investment Enterprise Fund (CIEF). In 2024/25 alone, SWIG Finance lent just under £15 million to 573 businesses, generating over £75.7 million in social value.

New Faces at the Helm

Matthew brings experience from Lloyds Banking Group, the Development Bank of Wales, and most recently Go.Compare, where he was Senior Data Partnerships Manager. He also serves as Non-Executive Director and Chair of First Choice Housing Association.

“I am motivated by SWIG’s mission and excited to join the team in the next chapter of SWIG’s evolution — scaling reach, strengthening delivery, and supporting more SMEs,” said Matthew. “Having grown up in the South West, I am delighted to be returning to the region.”

He added, “What drew me to this role was the SWIG Finance team’s passion and commitment to impact lending. I’m excited to work alongside the board, the wider team, and SWIG’s stakeholders to help drive forward its mission and amplify its impact.”

Matthew is relocating to Bristol with his partner Polly and their Golden Retriever, Gruff. Outside of work, he enjoys the outdoors, follows Formula One, and competes in Strongman events.

Strengthening the Senior Team

As part of a broader reshuffle, Nicola Parker has been promoted to Lending & Market Director and joins Matthew and Finance Director Dave Bullen on the new Senior Leadership Team.

The SWIG Group Board has also welcomed four new high-profile members in recent months.

Christine Allison, Chairperson of SWIG Group, commented: “As a Board, it was crucial to find a successor to John Peters who shares SWIG’s values, and who has the passion and drive to lead our efforts to support more SMEs throughout the greater South West with their financial needs. We are confident we have found that ideal combination in Matt.”

The recruitment process was led by Vanessa Moon and Simon Quinn of Moon Executive Search.

About SWIG Finance

SWIG Finance provides loans and support to help smaller businesses across the South and West Country grow. With a people-first approach, they focus on potential rather than collateral, making funding accessible when others might say no.