A bank formed nearly four decades ago with a focus on social responsibility has been crowned company of the year.
The highest prize at Thursday night’s Greater Birmingham Chambers of Business Awards went to Unity Trust Bank, which was also recognized for its service to the community.
The bank, today located in Brindleyplace in the city, was created in 1984 by labor unions to serve the public interest. Judges applauded Unity Trust Bank’s objective to “build a better society by focusing on effect rather than profit maximization.”
Last year, the bank hired seven commercial banking officers for the region and three relationship managers for north and south Birmingham, the Black Country, and Sutton Coldfield, bringing its frontline Midlands staff to a total of twenty individuals.
In the first half of 2022, net lending climbed by £63 million to £786 million, with an extra 99 customers gaining access to loans through responsible finance providers.
The financing assisted in the creation of 149 employment, the safe housing of 384 individuals, the construction or renovation of 488 beds, the provision of 504 day care places and 89 community amenities. The bank also announced new charitable collaborations with the Prince’s Trust and Fareshare for 2022/23.
The bank’s deposit clients include charities, parish councils, care organizations, and labor unions, and it also supports the finances of community development financial institutions.
“Congratulations to Unity Trust Bank for receiving the Greater Birmingham Company of the Year award,” said Katrina Cooke, the chamber’s chief commercial officer and head of the awards judging panel.
“The judges were highly impressed with the quality of entries for this year’s awards, which show the breadth, diversity, and talent of regional businesses. Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate.”
Deb Leary, the president of the chamber, presented her President’s Award to the group responsible for the success of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Professor Geoff Thompson, vice-chairman of the organizing committee, accepteds the prize on behalf of all partners, volunteers, and companies participating in last summer’s Olympic Games.
She stated, “Birmingham 2022 became the home games for all nations. From the renowned Raging Bull on the opening night to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne on the closing night, the games caught the imagination of the city, the area, the United Kingdom, and the rest of the globe.”
The awards, which were presented by radio personality Ed James, were held in the Birmingham International Convention Centre, which housed 1,200 attendees.