A dedicated leader of the region’s funding and finance ecosystem has been appointed as GM Business Growth Hub’s new head of Access to Finance.
Ian Dixon has been promoted to the new role after 16 years as the Hub’s Access to Finance (A2F) team leader.
Dixon has more than 20 years of professional and industry experience in a variety of senior roles, and before joining the Hub worked across a wide portfolio of financial projects, including flotations and acquisitions.
Working at A2F, Dixon has played a key role in supporting the region’s SMEs to secure appropriate funding from either the public or private sector.
He has specialised in supporting businesses engaged in equity fundraising, providing guidance on the processes and pitfalls involved and navigating the early-stage funding landscape.
Janine Smith, GM Business Growth Hub Director, said: “I’m delighted that Ian will be leading the Access to Finance team supporting Greater Manchester businesses to become investment ready and to secure the finance needed to support growth and scale ambitions.
“Ian has a strong commercial background, is well known and respected across the sector and understands the challenges businesses face in seeking finance and funding, particularly in the equity space.”
As head of A2F, Dixon will be supporting on delivery of plans to extend the service and its activities, with a particular focus on integrating digital pathways to meet the needs of Greater Manchester’s businesses.
Recruitment of a new network manager and two new A2F advisors is also underway.
Ian Dixon added: “I am delighted to be appointed to support the future development of the Access to Finance service and build upon the tremendous knowledge and experience within the team.
“The pace of change within the investment landscape continues to accelerate and presents both significant challenges but importantly opportunities for the development of the Access to Finance advisory service.
“I hope to build upon the successes of the past as we look to invest in extending the capacity and capabilities of the future service for the benefit of the GM business community.”
Access to Finance and other GM Business Growth Hub projects are funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.