Our People | Meet Lynn Kemp

Lynn Kemp, Business Development Officer

With more than 30 years’ experience within the banking industry, Lynn Kemp’s appointment as a Business Development Officer in March 2018 was a welcome addition to the team. The cat-loving Cliff Richard fan lives with her golf-mad husband in Baldock, North Hertfordshire.
 
What gets you out of bed in the morning?

The cat wanting his breakfast!
 
If you were not doing this what would you be doing instead?

I would be in the police force.
 
So how did you end up in banking?

When I left school, I got a job as builder’s receptionist, but then a job agency phoned and offered me two further job opportunities. It was either with a bank or building society. So, I agreed to an interview at Lloyds bank in Hitchin, as a secretary. I remember it was the manager at the time who interviewed me.
 
He asked me whether I could do shorthand and audio typing. My answer to all of the above was ‘no’ but I insisted I was eager to learn. My honesty, but willingness to learn, landed me the job at just 18 years old. I did the job for about 20 years and moved up the corporate ladder as a Senior Manager Secretary, then as the bank’s roles evolved and secretary jobs were adapted, I went into specialised business banking.
 
What’s the best part of your job?

Most definitely it’s working with the brokers. I love talking to them, finding out about them, and then using my knowledge and skills to find them the right product. It’s about working together to get the best option for the customer. I also enjoy discussing directly with customers. Engaging with people is my strength.
 
What has been your proudest achievement with Redwood to date?

As someone who works closely with brokers in my day-to-day role, it was extremely rewarding to be an integral part of the Bank’s 2020 Inaugural Broker Awards, and see our partners celebrated publicly for their loyalty and commitment to the Bank.
 
I also had a very proud moment when a customer phoned and thanked me for my professionalism and prompt way in dealing with his enquiry.
 
You already had a lot of experience in banking when you joined Redwood, but have you learnt anything new in the last two years?

Having spent more than 30 years in banking, including previously working for another challenger bank, Redwood provided the opportunity to share that knowledge with the team and continue to drive a new flourishing bank forward. 
 
How do you see Redwood evolving in the next two years?

I think it’s only going to grow stronger and bigger as the market evolves. Evolvement is crucial in order to develop further products proactively, and innovatively support businesses across the UK.
 
What keeps you up at night/anything on your mind?  

The cat – late night visits for cuddles. During lockdown, I think the cat might have found it an inconvenience for me to be at home so much, seems like he had his own routine while I was at work!
 
What three people, dead or alive, would you invite to your ultimate dinner party? 

Cliff Richard, Hattie Jacques (John Hall, my colleague, says she is my lookalike!) and James Martin.
 
Anything else of interest that you think readers would find interesting about you that we haven’t already covered…

My mum and dad used to own a bakery and sweetshop in Baldock where I helped out from the age of five until mum gave it up in 1982. During my tenure there I mastered the art of getting the large heavy glass jars from the top shelf, which I am sure people only asked for as they thought I could not reach them!