Azets launches debt funding advisory service to support growing demand for specialist advice
As businesses contend with persistent financial difficulties, which have been exacerbated by announcements in the recent Autumn Budget and a looming cost of business crisis, we are seeing growing demand for specialist support in navigating complex funding challenges and tailored finance solutions. In response, we have created a specialist proposition to support with sourcing critical finance.
Mark Barrie, previously Funding & Strategic Partnership Director, will be taking up the role of Head of Debt Advisory, leading a team assisting business owners and managers with new funding lines, working with intermediaries and mainstream and independent lenders.
He said: “Many businesses need lifeblood finance to support cashflow. They have faced 16 years of constant curve-ball challenges since the global financial crash of 2008, including a flatlining economy, Brexit, the pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis, increased borrowing costs, reduced consumer spending and, from April 2025, the hard-hitting increase in employer national insurance contributions and the associated cost of business crisis.
“Against this backdrop, there is clear need for strategic guidance and support regarding corporate finance options, risk management, efficiencies and restructuring as companies navigate these difficult times, with our debt advisory service able to unlock new opportunities and build business value.”
Mark, a Chartered Banker, leads a national team of seven, with four debt advisory directors covering regions in England, Wales and Scotland, with plans to grow headcount on the back of demand.
The debt advisory directors are Mark (South), Phil Empson (Scotland, North East and Yorkshire), Chris Briggs (North West, Central and West) and Martyn Freeman (Central and West).
Mark added: “We are able to access funding lines through Banks, peer-to-peer platforms, private debt funds and invoice and asset-based lenders.
Key to borrowing is the ability of each business to repay – lenders are cautious and expect robust planning and cashflow forecasting.”
Peter Gallanagh, Chief Executive Office of Azets UK, said: “The formation of our debt advisory team, led by Mark in a newly created role, meets the demands of businesses which are either growing or are experiencing trading problems. Azets continues to develop service lines which provide strategic support to our 93,000 clients.”
We are here to help
If you have any questions in relation to funding and finance solutions, please get in touch with the Debt Advisory team via the form below or reach out to your usual Azets advisor