UK Export Finance bolsters regional support with new appointment
UK Export Finance (UKEF), the UK Government's export credit agency, has appointed Mark Sankey as export finance manager for Black Country, Staffordshire and Shropshire.
The appointment brings together more than 25 years of experience supporting businesses across the West Midlands, including a period with Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, where Mark served as an international trade adviser and former head of international trade team.
Throughout his career, Mark has helped businesses begin exporting, enter new international markets and grow overseas sales.
He has also held roles with the former Department for Business & Trade, now Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, private sector organisations across the legal, accountancy and higher education and innovation sectors, giving him a broad understanding of the support available to businesses across the region and the needs of exporters.
In his new role, Mark will work with businesses, banks and intermediaries to raise awareness of UKEF's government-backed finance and insurance solutions and help more firms realise their international growth ambitions.
UKEF is the UK Government's export credit agency and exists to ensure no viable UK export fails for lack of finance or insurance.
It works alongside businesses and lenders to help companies access finance, manage risk and unlock opportunities in overseas markets.
Support can include helping businesses access working capital, providing guarantees that support lending, assisting with contract bond requirements and offering insurance to protect exporters against non-payment.
Mark said: "The Black Country, Staffordshire and Shropshire are home to some of the UK's most innovative and internationally ambitious businesses.
“Throughout my career I've seen how exporting can transform a business, creating new opportunities for growth, investment and jobs.
"I'm excited to join UK Export Finance and help more businesses understand the range of government-backed support available.
“Many firms are unaware that support may be available to help them secure finance, manage risk or fulfil export contracts. My role is to ensure businesses know where to turn when these challenges arise."
Mark will work closely with the Chamber, banks and other business support organisations to strengthen awareness of UKEF's offer and help ensure more businesses can trade internationally with confidence.
Businesses interested in exploring export opportunities, discussing an overseas contract, or learning more about UKEF support can gain more information from the website.
