UTB: listening to broker feedback

Astrid Michael, Sales & Marketing Director at United Trust Bank (pictured left), explains why listening to broker feedback, fostering industry collaboration and investing in meaningful conversations remain key to shaping the future of asset finance.

The best ideas in asset finance often come from conversations with brokers rather than the boardroom. That's one of the reasons why strengthening our relationships with broker partners remains a major focus for UTB this year.

Recently, UTB hosted its Broker Exchange and Next Gen Broker Exchange forums, bringing together experienced professionals and those earlier in their careers to discuss the issues shaping our industry. These sessions are hugely valuable because they give brokers a direct voice in how we develop our proposition and help ensure we continue to evolve in line with the needs of today's market.

UTB was also delighted to welcome AI expert Richard Huston to both events. His presentation on the rapid development of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on asset finance generated plenty of discussion, with one delegate describing the insights as "eye-opening". As technology continues to evolve, we believe it's important to help brokers understand not only what is changing, but what it could mean for our business, their businesses and their customers in the years ahead.

We've also been out and about supporting the wider broker community. Last month, we attended the NACFB Commercial Finance Expo in Birmingham and were proud to return as headline sponsor of the Scottish Commercial Finance Conference. There, Eleanor Russell-Blackburn, Lisa Thomas and I joined brokers and lenders from across Scotland to discuss market trends, technology, the development of the Scottish economy and the opportunities available to brokers and lenders supporting Scottish businesses.

Despite ongoing economic headwinds, there was a real sense of optimism throughout the event and plenty of positive discussion about innovation, growth and the future of the industry.

Whether through our forums, industry events or day-to-day conversations, UTB’s goal remains the same: to listen carefully, learn continuously and build a business shaped by broker feedback.

The stronger these relationships become, the better equipped we all are to support SMEs, embrace change and grow together.

Best wishes,

Astrid Michael
Sales & Marketing Director – Asset Finance
United Trust Bank

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