Ulster Bank has appointed Kenton Hilman as its Mid-Market Champion in Northern Ireland – one of 12 that NatWest Group has appointed across the UK nations and regions.
The announcement was made at the first Mid-Market Growth Council reception hosted by the Chancellor of the Exchequer at 11 Downing Street this week and is part of NatWest’s “Growing Together” plan to drive UK wide growth by supporting regional economies and the midsized firms behind them.
Recent research by the bank shows that nine in ten of mid-market businesses say a visible regional leader would support their company growth (90%) and help economic growth in their region (91%). In addition, 89% of mid-market companies surveyed said that having a visible regional leader representing mid-market firms would be very or somewhat beneficial in influencing positive policy outcomes with devolved and local government. Mid-market firms remain deeply rooted in – and critical to – their local communities, with three quarters (74%) saying their regional economies are fundamental drivers of economic growth.
The appointment of the Champions is designed to address this directly, helping the Bank to drive stronger regional economies and be the trusted partner for the people building in those economies.
Kenton Hilman, Ulster Bank Mid-Market Champion, said: “Mid-sized businesses in Northern Ireland, like McKeever Hotel, hold the key to unlocking growth. As one of Northern Ireland’s largest banks for mid-sized businesses, it is vital that Ulster Bank is representing their concerns and working to remove the barriers to expansion that they face. I look forward to using this platform to build a stronger Northern Ireland economy through championing the interests of mid-sized businesses.”
Bridgene Keeley, Director of Sales and Marketing, McKeever Hotel, said: “Mid-market businesses such as McKeever Hotels play a vital role in Northern Ireland contributing to employment and growth. However, we can often be overlooked in terms of representation, when compared with small businesses and large corporates alike. The appointment of regional mid-market champions by Ulster Bank represents a step change for us. The direct support of specialists who have deep local knowledge, understand our businesses and Northern Ireland, will strengthen our capabilities to drive further growth in our business. And that’s very welcome news for our business and the communities across our region.”
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves commented: “Our economic plan is the right one and central to it are strong regions powered by medium-sized businesses. It’s clear those businesses will welcome Mid-Market champions and their role to support regional growth across the country.”
Paul Thwaite, Group CEO, NatWest commented: “As the number one bank for mid-sized businesses, this initiative will further strengthen our regional footprint, enabling an even deeper understanding of mid-market customers and accelerating their growth.
“The potential of mid-markets should not be underestimated; just 1% growth in this segment could add £35bn to the UK economy, with £24bn of that outside the South East of England.”
Drawing on deep regional expertise, the Champions will be a strong voice for mid-market businesses, feeding into the work of the Mid-Market Growth Council – a forum that brings together business leaders, representative bodies and government to provide a platform for this segment and drive action that supports growth. They will develop insights into local customer needs, shape regional priorities for the Council, and strengthen NatWest’s convening power to unlock growth opportunities across the country.
To mark the first anniversary of the Mid-Market Growth Council, the Chancellor hosted a reception at No.11 Downing Street on 10 March, bringing together key Council members alongside over 50 mid-market business leaders from across the UK. The event underscored the vital role mid-market firms play in driving regional and national growth, reflecting findings that highlight the importance businesses place on visible regional leadership and a stronger collective mid-market voice.
By championing mid-sized businesses, NatWest Group reaffirms its commitment to driving sustainable growth and prosperity throughout the UK with a continued focus on devolved nations and regions.