Brian Kilpatrick, AKA BK, was born and raised in Stewarton, Ayrshire, and is one of the Founding Directors of ABF. In 2014, he was crowned with the first-ever prestigious Leasing World “Next Generation Award” for services to the asset finance industry.
We recently sat down with BK to hear about his journey so far, what drives him personally, the lessons he’s picked up along the way, and his vision for the future of Allied Business Finance.
So, how long have you been in finance, and what sectors do you specialise in?
I’ve been in the industry for 23 years and specialise in asset finance for all sectors. I have further expertise in the Agricultural, Bus & Coach, Construction, Commercial Vehicles, Forestry, Haulage, Plant Hire, and Vehicle Rental sectors.
What do you enjoy outside of work that helps you recharge?
Like most of the other guys, I’m a big Football fan, supporting Kilmarnock and the Scotland National team. I also enjoy a nice round of Golf, and from a fitness point of view, a good game of Padel.
Any dislikes?
Surprisingly, given how tall I am, I really dislike heights!
Moving on to your career, what was your very first job, and what did it teach you?
I used to do a paper round before school during the week, then the Evening Times after school, and even the Sunday papers on Sunday mornings. It really taught me a strong work ethic – getting up early, putting in the effort, and I learned that hard work pays off.
What’s one decision or turning point that changed your path in an unexpected way?
Moving from IT into sales was a big change, but a great one. I went from solving technical problems behind the scenes to helping clients find solutions that really work for them. It allowed me to build stronger relationships and see how technical knowledge can make a real difference when paired with understanding people’s needs.
If you weren’t in this role, what’s another career you could imagine yourself in?
When I was younger, I’d have loved to be a footballer – I think I could have done well, but my chances were cut short in my mid-teens by Dundee Utd. If finance hadn’t worked out, I’d have probably learned a trade, like joinery.
Who has been the biggest influence or mentor in your career?
This is unquestionable – Allan Ross. He played a huge part in both my career and my adult life. I 100% wouldn’t be the person I am or where I am in life and work without his influence and will forever be in debt to Allan.
What’s been your favourite deal and why?
There have been so many memorable deals over the years, but a few really stand out. I particularly enjoyed financing a DAF CF530 8×4 Tevor HGV recovery truck for a vehicle recovery business, and seeing it put to work was great.
Another highlight was arranging finance for two Volvo FH500 tractor units for a haulage customer who even named (and badged) them after my two girls, Isla and Erin.
I take a lot of pride in my work, and there’s nothing better than seeing the vehicles and equipment I’ve financed out there on sites, in yards, and on roads across the country.
What advice would you give your younger self just starting out?
This might be a bit controversial, but looking back, I’d tell my younger self to leave school earlier and dive straight into a job or apprenticeship. Getting hands-on experience and starting a working career sooner would have suited me better than staying in further education.
How do you personally handle setbacks or challenges?
I tend to take setbacks on the chin and look at what is within my control. Then it’s about getting my head down, working harder, and making sure I learn from it, so the same thing doesn’t happen again. My competitive side definitely kicks in too; I don’t like losing, so it just pushes me to bounce back stronger.
What do you hope people say it feels like to work with you?
I’d like people to say it’s “nice and easy.” I aim to take the hassle out of finance, make it simple, and let them get on with what they do best – while I handle the tricky stuff behind the scenes.
(Guess what, Brian? They do and more!)
| “We have worked with Brian since 2011, who has been incredible in assisting with growing our business. We see him as a close personal friend now through our connection and experiences. Brian has made finance for our business so simple for us, taking away the pain of the process and getting things sorted, allowing us to run the day-to-day aspects of the business. I often recommend Brian to other business connections and would highly recommend him to others.“ David, Central Scotland Vehicle Rental Business |
What excites you most about the company’s future?
What excites me most is the freedom and opportunity we have to shape the company the way we want. We’re building something from the ground up – we can try new ideas, take on challenges, and create a lasting impact. It’s hugely rewarding to be part of that journey and see the difference we can make for our clients.
To discover how Brian can help your business, call him on 07842 552237 or email [email protected]. To learn more about BK’s career and his achievements, you can find him on LinkedIn. To keep up to date with all that’s happening at Allied Business Finance, follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
