In a move intended to further enhance its rural support and agricultural financing strategy, Virgin Money has announced the appointment of Oliver Maxey as Regional Head of Agriculture for England. With agriculture accounting for 16% of overall business lending, the bank has a long history of providing farmers with finance across the UK. Headed up by Brian Richardson and supported by the regional heads of England and Scotland, is a dedicated agricultural team that covers the entirety of the UK.
Oliver has a background deeply rooted in farming and is passionate about the agricultural industry. Oliver started out his career as a farm management consultant, he then took up the position as Regional Sales Director for Genus Breeding before furthering his career in agricultural banking where he has spent that last 17 years. His promotion to this newly created position sees him take responsibility for England.
Commenting on his new appointment Oliver Maxey said: “Virgin Money is recognised for its provision of first-class agricultural expertise and banking facilities, and my aim is to continue to build on these foundations and further strengthen our position in the Agri Market.
Unprecedented change
“Farming is going through unprecedented change due to our departure from the EU, consequential change in the financial support regime, carbon neutral objectives and inflation at eye watering levels. While these are all issues causing difficulties for farm enterprises, now is the time to understand the direction farming is going in and organise your business and its resources to ensure it remains functional and viable for the period ahead.
“The bank’s team of Agribusiness Managers have an average of 25 years of experience in banking, of which 15 years have been in Agricultural banking. This depth of knowledge and expertise is well recognised by farming businesses and is key to the strong partnerships and relationships that we have with customers as we help them achieve success.”
Lending to the farming and wider food sector is a significant part of Virgin Money’s portfolio. The farming community demands specialist advice for its livelihood, and it has always been extremely important to the bank to ensure it has the expertise required by the diverse range of agri-businesses. The aim of this newly formed management structure is to strengthen and streamline the bank’s offering to the farming community.
Working alongside Mr Maxey, as regional head of Agriculture for England, is Stephen Buchan, who is newly appointed as the regional head of Agriculture for Scotland.
On announcing Oliver’s appointment, Brian Richardson, UK Head of Agriculture, added: “Oliver has a vast comprehension and practical understanding of the agricultural sector, with a passion that comes from his background and his many years of first-hand experience within the industry.
“We have spent a considerable effort reviewing what the future will look like for farming and Oliver is perfectly placed to support our stakeholders. For our Agri-banking customers we know that knowledge of the industry is key, and in these challenging times this has never been more important. Going forward, Virgin Money aims to build on its experience and heritage through expert managers who fully understand the nuances of the farming sector, and the importance of making long-term relationships to provide services in cost-effective and innovative ways.”
