Barclays in Swindon has bid a fond farewell to Corporate Relationship Director, Chris Elias, who has retired after being the face of banking in the town over many years.

Chris joined Barclays in 2010 after an initial banking career at Nat West and has over the years become an integral part of the Swindon business community. Almost 50 Swindon business professionals joined Chris at Barclays Regent Street, Swindon branch, for an informal celebration of his career and to pass on their best wishes for the future.

Trevor French, head of Barclays Corporate, Swindon, said: “We’re sorry to see Chris leave. He brought great experience and enthusiasm to the organisation and we would like to thank him for his hard years of work and commitment and wish him a long and happy retirement.

“Barclays brings a strong blend of banking and corporate finance skills to Swindon. The dedicated business team in the town enables us to take a holistic view and to add value benefiting local businesses and the local economy.”

Chris will be replaced by Nicola Atkinson who has already started in her new role ensuring a smooth transition for clients. Nicola has more than 32 years banking experience, predominantly in corporate banking, and will work alongside the wider Swindon Barclays business banking colleagues, who support businesses from start-up through to PLC, based at Swindon Regent Street branch in the centre of town.

Nicola said: “I am excited to take up this position for Barclays in Swindon, an area I know well having supported Chris in his role. Barclays has a strong track record locally and I’m looking forward to working with our customers and clients in the future to continue to help them fulfil their business aspirations.”