The British Business Bank has welcomed Vicky Mears as its new Director of UK Network for the Midlands and North of England, significantly bolstering its leadership team.
Vicky Mears, with over two decades of banking experience, assumes this role bringing expertise in trade finance, business banking relationship management, senior branch management in retail banking, and project management. Notably, she has spent five years supporting smaller businesses in their international market expansions, addressing scaling challenges, and accessing finance.
In her new position, Vicky will collaborate closely with Senior Network Managers throughout the Midlands and the North to better understand the small business landscape. Her focus will include aiding entrepreneurs in securing the necessary financial resources to scale and succeed. She remarked, ‘Smaller businesses are critical to the UK economy, and I’ve seen firsthand 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.’
Kate Prince joins Essity as the new senior public affairs manager for the UK and Republic of Ireland. With 25 years of experience in PR, public affairs, and sustainability, and an extensive network of industry stakeholders, she previously led social impact and sustainability programmes at Kellogg’s. Lee Doherty, VP at Essity, highlighted the rapid changes in healthcare policy and regulatory environments, stressing the need for industry insight to inform future decisions. Prince noted Essity’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, expressing enthusiasm for contributing to its mission.
Coalition has appointed Philip Cruickshank as Regional Development Underwriter, based in Manchester. Stephen Wares, Coalition’s international head of underwriting, praised Cruickshank as a significant addition to the team, citing his experience at Aon and Chubb. Cruickshank emphasised the importance of bringing Active Cyber Insurance to broker partners in the North, aiding IT directors and CISOs in understanding and managing cyber risks.
Barry Leahey, President of Playdale Playgrounds, has been appointed to the Cumbrian Economic Growth Board. This board, succeeding the Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, will involve local business leaders in regional decision-making. Leahey expressed his honour and excitement in contributing to the board, which aims to support inclusive economic growth and promote Cumbria as an excellent place for business.
In response to rising regional demand, Acorn by Synergie has re-appointed Jacqueline Baxter and Lindsey Cooke at its Crewe branch. Baxter, an experienced Commercial Recruitment Manager, will support recruitment efforts in Cheshire, Staffordshire, and surrounding areas. Cooke, bringing extensive experience in temporary industrial and permanent commercial recruitment, aims to strengthen Acorn’s recruitment services in the North West and Staffordshire. Bernard Ward, Managing Director, expressed enthusiasm for their return, acknowledging their deep regional knowledge and client relationships.
These key appointments across various sectors in the Northwest highlight a continued commitment to regional growth and development, drawing on extensive experience and expertise to drive future success.