The British Business Bank has announced the appointment of Vicky Mears as the new director of the UK Network for the North of England and the Midlands.
Mears brings over two decades of banking experience in various roles, including trade finance, relationship management within business banking, senior branch management in retail banking, and project management. Her extensive background also includes five years dedicated to supporting smaller businesses, aiding their expansion into international markets, and addressing the challenges they face in scaling up and accessing finance.
In her new position, Mears will collaborate closely with senior network managers across the North to gain a deeper understanding of the small business landscape. She will also provide essential support to entrepreneurs seeking the financial resources needed to scale up and thrive. With its headquarters in Sheffield, Mears’s appointment will further strengthen the Bank’s longstanding commitment to supporting businesses across the North and Midlands, regions where access to finance has traditionally been more complex.
Mears succeeds Sophie Dale-Black, who held the position for three years. Commenting on her new role, Mears stated, ‘Smaller businesses are critical to the UK economy, and I’ve seen first hand the impact access to finance can have not just for each business, but also the wider economy. That’s what attracted me to the British Business Bank. It’s a purpose-led organisation that genuinely works to make a difference and support ambitious UK entrepreneurs.’
Addressing the challenging market conditions for smaller businesses in recent years, Mears added, ‘It’s no secret that market conditions for smaller businesses have been challenging over the last few years, but entrepreneurs should feel confident knowing that there are plenty of finance options and support out there to help them on their growth journey. It’s an exciting time to be joining the Bank, and I can’t wait to work with the UK Network team across the North and Midlands.’
Mears’s wealth of experience and passion for supporting small businesses is expected to be a significant asset to the British Business Bank, furthering its mission to enhance access to finance for entrepreneurs across the North and Midlands.