Fintech entrepreneur Conrad Ford joins Business South board as non-executive director

Business South has welcomed fintech entrepreneur Conrad Ford to its board as a non-executive director.

Conrad, a member of the leadership team at SME-focused bank Allica, is known for founding Funding Options, a fintech startup which ranked among Europe’s fastest-growing firms and was later acquired by a digital banking provider.

The Winchester-based chartered accountant brings a wealth of experience from his work at Allica, named the fastest-growing company in the UK by The Sunday Times.

Speaking at the UK Real Estate and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF), which he attended alongside Business South, Ford expressed his passion for the Central South region: “I moved to the Central South region almost a decade ago and became increasingly excited about its potential – our region has a vital part to play in unleashing the UK’s economic growth potential, and I’m really excited to do my bit,” he said.

Leigh-Sara Timberlake, CEO of Business South Group, was enthusiastic about Ford’s appointment: “Having Conrad Ford as a non-executive director on our board will enable Business South to further develop the organisation to meet the needs of the businesses in the Central South region.

“We are delighted he has decided to join us and we know his insight, energy, and expertise will help us to achieve our goals in a rapidly changing digital landscape.”

Ford also spoke about the distinct economic identity of the Central South, challenging perceptions of the area as merely part of London’s commuter belt.

“The Central South region has its own distinct economic identity, with global leadership in sectors such as maritime, defence, and life sciences,” he said, adding that the region’s port cities, universities, and natural attractions give it a competitive edge.

However, Ford was quick to acknowledge the need to support areas of deprivation within the region, urging local growth to be unlocked for all communities.