Interview with Natwest
Can you introduce yourself and tell me a little about your background?
I’m Jamie Greenbank, the Branch Manager here at NatWest Cheltenham.
I first came to Cheltenham in 2011 to study Business Management and Accountancy at university. I quickly fell in love with the town and everything it has to offer, so I decided to stay here after graduating, which ultimately led me to NatWest.
I’m now in my tenth year with NatWest, having joined in December 2016, and throughout that time I’ve held a variety of different roles. I started out in a customer-facing role, working on the front desk and as a cashier, before moving into a Senior Personal Banker position. That role gave me the opportunity to work more closely with customers on a one-to-one basis, helping them understand their finances and work towards their personal goals.
I spent some time at our Gloucester branch before returning to Cheltenham as Branch Manager around two and a half years ago.
I’m incredibly lucky to have a fantastic team around me, and being Branch Manager is probably the most rewarding role I’ve had so far. Working in banking means that money is often at the centre of some of the biggest moments in people’s lives, so being able to play even a small part in those moments is something I really value.
Whether that’s helping someone buy their first home, supporting a family through an important financial decision, or working with a local business that’s just starting out and helping them understand what support and guidance is available, I really enjoy being able to have those conversations.
For me, it’s about much more than banking. It’s about understanding people, listening to what they need and helping them find the right support. Being able to do that every day is what makes the role so rewarding.
How did the business start and what inspired it?
NatWest has been part of communities for generations. Originally the Westminster Bank, this branch first opened in Cheltenham in 1922. It was actually due to open four years earlier, but that was postponed because of the war.
Banking has obviously changed significantly since then, particularly with the move towards digital banking. People are busier and want that convenience, but the way I see it, and the way NatWest sees it, is quite simple: we need to be there when people need us.
For some people, particularly those who may not be as tech-savvy or who simply don’t want to change the routines they’ve had for years, having a branch where they can speak to someone face-to-face remains incredibly important.
And actually, I think that’s true for everyone. When you’re going through a big life moment, you might be 95% sure you’re making the right decision, but sometimes you just need someone to talk it through with and provide that reassurance and guidance. That’s particularly important when it comes to money.
We’re also seeing huge changes in the economy, from the cost of living to mortgage rates, and sometimes you need someone who can help you understand what those changes mean for you.
Cheltenham is a thriving and entrepreneurial town, with so many fantastic businesses. For me, being part of this community means making sure we’re here to support those businesses and individuals, whether that’s through advice, guidance or simply having someone there when they need us.
How many people work here?
It’s myself and a team of 12 who make up the branch team, and we all have different roles.
We’re also supported by a wider network of specialists, including our Premier Banking team, Relationship Managers, Business and Commercial Relationship Managers, mortgage advisors and other specialist teams who can provide additional support when needed.
We also have Darwin House, our commercial office in Cheltenham, where a number of our commercial teams are based. They work closely with us to support local businesses and help them with their banking needs.
How does NatWest engage with other businesses locally?
For me, one of the most important parts of my role at NatWest is getting out from behind the desk, into the community, and meeting people face to face. Banking isn’t just about transactions and accounts, it’s about helping people and businesses feel confident about their financial future.
At a branch level, we run several initiatives that are designed to support individuals, businesses, charities and community groups, regardless of whether they bank with NatWest.
One of the key programmes we deliver is Financial Foundations which is free money guidance workshops that can help people build confidence in managing their finances. These sessions cover a range of topics, from understanding the basics of banking to learning how to protect yourself against fraud and scams. Unfortunately, we see the impact of scams all too often, so helping people recognise risks and stay safe online is a major focus for us.
We’re also passionate about supporting younger generations through NatWest Thrive, a programme delivered to children and young people aged five to eighteen. We work with local primary schools, secondary schools and colleges, providing workshops that help build financial awareness and life skills from an early age. The aim is to give young people the knowledge and confidence they need to make informed financial decisions as they grow older.
Another initiative we’re particularly proud of is our Workplace Financial Health Checks and with this programme, we have our Senior Personal Bankers to visit local businesses and offer one-to-one financial wellbeing sessions for employees. These personalised conversations focus on individual goals, aspirations and financial circumstances, helping people explore options and make plans for the future. Importantly, this support is available whether someone banks with NatWest or not. The focus is on providing guidance and helping people achieve their goals.
Alongside this community-focused work, our business and commercial relationship managers work closely with businesses across the region, providing tailored support and advice. They help business owners explore growth opportunities, overcome challenges and identify practical ways to achieve their ambitions.
NatWest is one of the UK’s leading banking and financial services organisations, supporting individuals, businesses and communities across the country. Alongside providing personal and business banking services, NatWest is committed to improving financial wellbeing through a range of community initiatives, including financial education workshops, fraud and scam awareness sessions, and financial health checks. By working closely with local organisations, schools and businesses, NatWest aims to help people build financial confidence and achieve their personal and professional goals.
Opening hours:
Monday/Tuesday/Thursday/Friday: 09:30-16:30
Wednesday: 10:00-16:30
Saturday: 09:00-13:00
Sunday: CLOSED