About Mill Wood Finance

Mill Wood Finance exists to give businesses the kind of relationship-led financial support that has become increasingly rare.

Our team works closely with business owners, finance directors and leadership teams, taking the time to understand their ambitions before identifying the right funding solution.

Rather than simply sourcing finance, we become a trusted partner, providing ongoing guidance and access to a wide network of specialist lenders. It's this personal approach, combined with over 25 years of experience, that has earned us long-standing relationships with clients across the UK.

Michael Bolland - Founding Director at Mill Wood Finance

/ Michael Bolland

Founding Director

Michael Bolland founded Mill Wood Finance over 25 years ago and has built the business into an established commercial finance brokerage trusted by businesses across the UK.

Throughout his career, he has specialised in helping companies secure funding where traditional lenders are unable to provide the flexibility or commercial understanding required.

With extensive experience across asset finance and commercial lending, Michael works closely with business owners and directors to structure funding solutions that support sustainable growth.

His practical approach, deep understanding of lender requirements and long-standing relationships across the finance sector have helped clients secure funding for everything from equipment purchases to complex mergers and acquisitions.

Michael remains actively involved with clients, ensuring every proposal is carefully structured and presented to maximise the likelihood of success. His focus has always been on providing honest advice, building long-term relationships and helping businesses access finance that genuinely supports their ambitions.

James Farrands - Corporate Finance at Mill Wood Finance

/ James Farrands

Corporate Finance

James Farrands works alongside CFOs, finance directors, CEOs and boards to deliver strategic funding solutions that support acquisitions, expansion, refinancing and long-term corporate growth. Rather than acting as a transactional broker, James builds lasting relationships with clients, becoming a trusted adviser throughout their funding journey.

For many businesses, James provides the experience that has largely disappeared from modern banking: a dedicated relationship manager who understands the organisation, its financial objectives and its future ambitions. Instead of dealing with different contacts at a high street bank, clients have a single point of contact who understands the wider commercial picture, can challenge ideas, identify opportunities and source funding that aligns with board-level objectives.

Working across Mill Wood Finance’s extensive lender network, James structures and delivers bespoke funding solutions. By combining a detailed understanding of corporate finance with strong lender relationships, he helps businesses access funding that supports both immediate priorities and long-term strategic plans.

James is recognised for his commercially focused approach, attention to detail and ability to build long-term partnerships with finance teams. Whether supporting a refinancing exercise, funding an acquisition or preparing for the next stage of growth, he provides the strategic guidance and continuity that businesses once expected from their bank manager, delivered with the flexibility and expertise of an independent corporate finance adviser.

Henry Bolland - Finance Broker at Mill Wood Finance

/ Henry Bolland

Finance Broker

Henry Bolland works with businesses across a wide range of sectors, helping them navigate the commercial finance market and identify funding solutions tailored to their objectives. As part of the Mill Wood Finance team, he supports clients throughout the funding process, from understanding their requirements through to preparing lender-ready applications.

Henry has developed a strong understanding of commercial lending products including asset finance, secured business loans, property finance and working capital facilities. He enjoys building relationships with business owners and taking the time to understand the commercial drivers behind every funding requirement.

Known for his approachable style and attention to detail, Henry focuses on making what can often be a complex process straightforward, ensuring clients receive clear communication and practical guidance from initial enquiry through to completion.

Mel Funnell - Office Manager at Mill Wood Finance

/ Mel Funnell

Office Manager

Mel Funnell plays an important role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of Mill Wood Finance and delivering a high standard of client service throughout the funding process.

Working closely with both clients and lenders, Mel helps coordinate documentation, manages administrative processes and supports applications from initial enquiry through to completion. Her organised approach and attention to detail help ensure transactions progress efficiently while keeping clients informed at every stage.

Known for her friendly and professional manner, Mel is committed to making every client’s experience with Mill Wood Finance as straightforward and stress-free as possible, providing valuable support to both customers and the wider team.