Marie Richardson, Branch Manager at Handelsbanken Newcastle, talks life, leadership and the little luxuries she loves…
Name
Marie Richardson
Where is home?
Washington
Three reasons you love where you live?
I’ve always been a bit of a city girl, and Washington is perfectly placed with easy access to Newcastle, Durham and Sunderland – giving me plenty of choice for weekends with friends and family.
Closer to home, I love spending time in Washington Village. It’s a beautiful spot – crowned Britain in Bloom winner in 2024 – and the ideal place to enjoy an al fresco coffee or a glass of wine. Having lived here for most of my life, Washington feels wonderfully familiar and welcoming.
What do you do for a living?
I’m the Branch Manager at Handelsbanken Newcastle.
A day in the life of you?
Much of my day is spent supporting our team of Account Managers, helping them deliver tailored banking solutions for clients.
I’m also closely involved in credit decisions within the branch, guiding the team on health and wellbeing matters, managing operational tasks, and meeting with customers and local professionals.
Outside of work, I enjoy staying active by attending my local bootcamp or heading out for a walk with my daughter and a friend.
Any recent, ongoing or upcoming projects or achievements we should know about?
I was recently appointed Branch Manager of our Newcastle City Centre branch – one of the largest in the Handelsbanken network.
This marks a huge milestone in my career, made even more special by the appointment of Nicola Boardman as Deputy Branch Manager in February 2025.
Together, we are proud to lead the first all-female management team in the Handelsbanken UK branch network.
What does downtime mean to you?
I love going out for a nice meal with my husband – and with our grown-up children too, whenever they join us. At home, nothing beats a cosy cuddle on the sofa with our dog, Millie.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A Psychologist or Florist – very different, I know. I have always been interested in understanding human behaviour and what makes people do what they do.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
Learn how and when to say no. It doesn’t make you a selfish person!
What is your greatest fear?
Losing my family. Oh, and wasps! I really dislike wasps!
Which living person do you most admire and why?
This is a tricky one as I could name so many, but I hugely admire Sara Davies. From creating her first craft invention in her university bedroom to building a global business, her journey is truly inspiring.
She’s passionate about the North East and about elevating the region on the business stage. I’ve loved following her many achievements – especially seeing her on Strictly – and I think she really epitomises the belief that anything is possible if you believe in yourself.
What is top of your bucket list?
I’d love to visit Australia – especially the Great Barrier Reef.
What is your most treasured possession?
My health along with letters from my dad and brother, who are both sadly no longer with me.
What does the weekend mean to you?
Time to switch off and be with my family, friends and my fur baby Millie.
A memorable holiday?
New York! It really is the city that doesn’t sleep.
Best dress?
Any cruise dress.
Who would be your top three dinner guests?
Purely for entertainment, Gary Barlow, Alan Carr and Alison Steadman.
The last place you ate?
Our local Italian restaurant Novellos – love that place!
The last book you read?
Out of Character by Alison Steadman.
The last thing you listened to?
Heart 80s – takes me right back to my youth.
The last thing you watched?
Love Island – my guilty pleasure! It’s escapism TV and means I can have a good old gossip with my 25-year-old daughter about the latest episode.
Your three luxe things in life?
Travel – I love the sun and discovering new places, and cruising has become a firm favourite. Champagne – I absolutely love it, with Veuve Clicquot being my favourite. My garden – I’ve recently renovated it and love spending time outdoors, especially after a long day at work. This summer has been perfect for making the most of it.
