Jerry Arneja

Thank you for taking the time to get to know me, my name is Jerry Arneja, actually my full name is Bharinder Singh Arneja, my parents migrated to the UK in the 60’s and like many other Asian parents gave their children an “English name” to perhaps avoid discrimination in later life.

My dad doesn’t talk much about this, but I know he experienced some tough times when he arrived in the UK – for background he was the first turbaned Sikh business owner in Sunderland
I like the name “Jerry”, it celebrates and highlights my proud British nationality and my surname, Arneja reminds me of my wonderful Punjabi heritage, albeit I’m pleased times have moved on, my daughters don’t need an “English” name… Riya and Esha both beautiful, Indian & arguably now common names.

So, my current role. I’m currently an Area Director at HSBC SME Business Banking, leading a team of Commercial Relationship Managers who in turn support SME businesses across the North East.
This is a senior role and one that I am extremely proud to have.

I fell into banking in 2021, I had a stint in the family business but quickly decided that wasn’t for me, neither was Wed Design / E-Commerce which I studied for a while.

I started my financial career as Personal Account Manager with Lloyds TSB in London, before moving back north & joining Newcastle based Northern Rock for a short period.

I joined HSBC’s Commercial Bank in 2008. I excelled as a Commercial Relationship Manager over 10 years, supporting both domestic and international SME businesses across the North East with turnover levels up to £10m

I moved into area leadership in Jan 2018, taking on a secondment role within Business Banking, Scotland before securing the permanent role of Deputy Area Director in North East.

After a 12-month secondment period within the bank’s Chief Operating Office in 2021, I was promoted to Area Director, Business Banking, North East England & Humber and continue to lead the team.

I lead on many projects within HSBC UK including D&I, UK / India Trade Corridor and celebrated my 17-year anniversary with the bank this year.

Additionally, externally I chair the North East, City UK – a key role which support the North East Finance sector.

24 years in banking have delivered some proud moments, including numerous promotions, business delivery and personal growth.
My leadership roles have enabled me to support and mentor colleagues from many backgrounds, into roles and promotions. In addition, my roles at HSBC have allowed me to support 100’s of SME’s across the North East both as a commercial manager and leader in the business.

I am also proud to lead the UK/India trade corridor for HSBC SME Business Banking. This opportunity has allowed me to connect with colleagues in India, devise/ deliver a growth strategy and really drive this key corridor at a national level.

I have delivered and led many open discussions on D&I, at times sharing difficult and personal experiences of racism (at work and personally) to raise awareness, educate a wider audience and encourage allyship.

Whilst my banking career has delivered many successes, there have been challenges – Covid was a challenging time for all. I was proud to co-lead a team which supported many businesses during this challenging period.

I’d like to think my career provides encouragement and is a positive example of what can be achieved, regardless of background. When I came into banking (particularly in the North East) there weren’t a lot of colleagues who looked like me.

2026 is a key year for me, I personally turn 50 & celebrate a 25-year successful banking career. Being nominated for this award adds to that celebration & showcases what can be achieved.

Would anything have been different if I’d used my full name, I don’t know? What I do know is determination, focus and the desire to learn have all paid a key part in my journey…so far.