Metro Bank Partners with BankiFi to Launch Invoice It

UK SMEs in the Financial Services Sector Benefit from New Payments App

Metro Bank, a leading provider of financial services in the UK, has collaborated with engagement banking provider BankiFi to introduce Invoice It, a user-friendly app and web-based platform designed to streamline payment processes for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the financial services sector.

In response to the growing demand for modern financial solutions within the industry, Invoice It offers a comprehensive end-to-end payments and accounts receivable solution, coupled with dedicated engagement support services. The app is accessible to all Metro Bank Business or Commercial Current Account customers through iOS and Android devices or via the web.

A key advantage of Invoice It is its compatibility with major accounting software, saving businesses valuable time on financial administration. By automating the invoicing and payment process, SMEs in the financial services sector can reduce the time spent chasing late payments and focus on core activities that drive growth.

According to Nick Reid, Head of Strategic Growth at BankiFi, “Metro Bank is a great example of a bank that's really listening to the needs of its business and commercial customers and ensuring they're being reflected in new products. Our data shows that 73% of businesses using Invoice It are getting paid within just 2 days, often in advance of any invoice terms – significantly helping with their cash management.”

Ian Jackson, Director of Bank Accounts, Payments and Deposits at Metro Bank, emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating, "In today's challenging economic climate, helping small businesses in the financial services sector get paid quickly and efficiently is more crucial than ever. At Metro Bank, we believe that improving cash management is a top priority for UK businesses, and Invoice It enables us to continue attracting new customers."

Learn more...

Awaze Bolsters Leadership Team with New Chief Growth Officer and Chief Technology Officer

European vacation rental giant Awaze has announced two key appointments to its senior leadership team this week. Jennifer Day joins the company as Chief Growth Officer, bringing a wealth of experience in customer management and digital transformation from her previous roles at Sky and Shop Direct (now The Very Group). Day will be responsible for driving customer acquisition, fostering brand growth across Awaze's portfolio (including Hoseasons, cottages.com, and Novasol), and crafting a seamless guest experience.

Meanwhile, Gavin Shetly takes the helm as Chief Technology Officer. Shetly boasts a proven track record in technology leadership, having served as CTO at Global Fashion Group and held positions at Ikea and Paddy Power Betfair. In his new role, Shetly will focus on maximising the potential of Awaze's unified web platform to enhance business efficiency and spearhead further technological innovation.

Awaze CEO Henrik Kjellberg expressed his enthusiasm about the appointments, highlighting Day and Shetly's expertise as "world-class talents" that solidify Awaze's position as a frontrunner in the European vacation rental management landscape.

Learn more...

Virgin Media O2 to Invest in New Manchester Office

Virgin Media O2 has announced plans to invest in a new state-of-the-art office space in central Manchester. The company has signed a contract with Island, a net-zero carbon workspace, which will become its new central Manchester office location from late next year.

The move comes as the company's lease for its current Wythenshawe office is set to expire in early 2026. After a comprehensive review of property options in the area, Virgin Media O2 selected Island due to its excellent location, amenities, and sustainable features.

The new office will offer employees a range of benefits, including strong transport links, excellent cycle storage and shower facilities, a rooftop terrace, and a variety of food and drink options. Among the teams moving to Island will be Virgin Media O2's multi-skilled customer service teams.

This investment demonstrates Virgin Media O2's commitment to Manchester and its people. The company has been associated with the city since 1991. The new office aligns with Virgin Media O2's flexible working policies and will provide a modern, future-proof space for its employees to collaborate.

Island is targeting an Excellent BREEAM Sustainable Building Certification, reflecting its commitment to environmental sustainability. The workspace features a range of sustainable features, including centralised air handling units, solar panels, and efficient lifts.

Patricia Cobian, Virgin Media O2's Chief Financial Officer, said, "This investment demonstrates our commitment to Manchester and our people. The new office will provide a vibrant space for our employees to collaborate and attract future talent. We are excited to offer our employees a wide range of amenities and facilities at Island."

Learn more...

Feeling the Tech Talent Squeeze? MRJ Recruitment Can Help!

The tech talent market is wild, we get it. Finding the perfect fit for your team can seem like a never-ending struggle. But that's where MRJ Recruitment comes in!

We're your one-stop shop for connecting with top-tier tech talent in the booming software engineering sector, specifically within the exciting world of SaaS. That means we can help you find rockstar developers – JavaScript, .NET, Python, and beyond – along with talented product managers and engineers.

Our team is packed with tech industry veterans who are passionate about creating the perfect match between brilliant talent and incredible companies. We take the time to understand your specific needs and craft a custom recruitment plan to find your ideal hire.

Here's why MRJ Recruitment is your secret weapon:

• Tech  Network: We maintain a vast pool of pre-vetted developers, engineers, and product managers who specialise in software engineering and the SaaS market.
• Tailored Solutions: Forget one-size-fits-all approaches. We listen to your needs and build a strategic plan to find your perfect tech talent, whether it's JavaScript Developers, .NET Developers, Python Developers, or any other tech expertise you require.
• Stress-Free Hiring: We handle everything from sourcing the best candidates to managing the offer process. You can focus on what you do best – building an amazing team!
• Your Dedicated Recruitment Partner: You'll have a dedicated account manager by your side every step of the way, guiding you through the process and ensuring a smooth experience.

Ready to level up your tech team with exceptional talent? MRJ Recruitment is your partner! Visit our website to learn more and start building your dream team:   https://www.mrjrecruitment.com/ 

Embedded Finance Leader Liberis Expands Offerings to Empower SMEs

Leading embedded finance platform Liberis announced a significant expansion of its services, aiming to better support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The new multi-product platform empowers Liberis' partners to offer a wider range of personalised financial services to SMEs, addressing a critical need in today's market.

Addressing the Cash Flow Gap:

According to PYMNTS Intelligence, a significant portion of SMEs face cash flow challenges, with 44% experiencing gaps one to four times a year. Interestingly, the same report found that 72% of microbusinesses and small businesses who utilised embedded lending in the past year saw positive business impacts.

Data-Driven, Personalised Solutions:

Liberis' new platform leverages advanced technology and data insights to tailor its offerings to each SME's specific needs. Partnering with businesses across 13 markets, Liberis gathers real-time cash flow data to provide personalised financial solutions, including established products like Flexible Financing and Business Cash Advance.

Key Benefits for Partners and SMEs:

• Expanded Product Suite: Partners can offer a wider range of financial solutions to SMEs, fostering stronger customer relationships.
• Enhanced Customer Experience: Pre-approved, data-driven funding reduces application anxiety for SMEs and streamlines the financing process.
• Accelerated Product Delivery: Streamlined processes allow partners to personalise and deliver financial solutions quickly and efficiently.

Liberis CEO Rob Straathof commented: "This strategic expansion empowers Liberis and our partners to provide more comprehensive support to SMEs. By offering a wider range of financial solutions, we aim to address the unique needs of small businesses and help them thrive in today's competitive market."

Liberis: A Champion for Small Businesses:

Liberis is dedicated to empowering SMEs worldwide by providing access to essential financial tools through a network of partners. By bridging the gap between finance and small businesses, Liberis helps SMEs grow and succeed. Since 2007, Liberis has bolstered over 40,000 small businesses with more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they believe this is just the beginning.

Learn more...

Tech Leaders Converge at Leaders Connected, Boosting Northwest Tech Scene

The Northwest tech scene is set to receive a significant boost as top-level executives from across the industry gather for the inaugural Leaders Connected event on Thursday, October 17th. This exclusive networking event, powered by MRJ Recruitment and sponsored by Equal Experts, aims to inspire, motivate, and connect influential figures in the region's tech community.

The presence of high-profile speakers like Anna Barsby, a renowned transformation and technology leader, and Kevin Evans, a seasoned CTO/CIO, is expected to draw a crowd of aspiring professionals and industry veterans. Their insights and experiences will offer guidance to attendees as well as a rundown on the journey they have both been on from the start of their career to now.

"Leaders Connected is more than just an event; it's a platform for the Northwest tech community to come together, share ideas, and build lasting relationships," said Jody, CEO/Founder at MRJ Recruitment. "We are thrilled to have such a great linkup of speakers join us, and its shaping up to be something really special."

In addition to the fireside chats with industry leaders, the event will feature networking opportunities, Free food and bar, and exciting sponsor prizes.

As the Northwest tech sector continues to grow and thrive, events like Leaders Connected play a crucial role in fostering innovation, collaboration, and talent development. By bringing together top-level executives and aspiring professionals, these events help to create a more vibrant and dynamic tech ecosystem.

For anyone interested in attending, register your place here >> https://www.mrjrecruitment.com/resources/mrj-events/ 

Cyber Risk Specialist Melius Cyber Secures £500,000 Investment

Newcastle-based cyber risk specialist Melius CyberSafe has received a significant boost with a £500,000 investment from the North East Venture Fund. The funding will fuel the development of a new version of their CyberSafe platform and create six new jobs.

CyberSafe, designed for SMEs and led by CEO Richard Brown, provides real-time monitoring of IT networks, websites, and mobile apps. It automates vulnerability scanning and penetration testing, helping businesses meet industry standards like Cyber Essentials and ISO 27001. The upcoming version will feature enhanced reporting, anti-ransomware capabilities, and advanced email security.

The investment brings Melius Cyber's total funding to £1.35 million. With this support, the company aims to establish a full security operation center (SOC) and a security information and event management (SIEM) solution.

Founded in 2019, Melius Cyber has been backed by Mercia Ventures and the NEVF since 2022. The company's previous funding rounds have enabled them to develop their system, expand their customer base, and serve over 60 clients, including Virgin Wines and Crafters Companion.

Learn more...

Elevate Your Tech Team with MRJ Recruitment

Need to attract top-tier tech talent? MRJ Recruitment is your trusted partner for finding the brightest minds in the software engineering sector, particularly within the dynamic SaaS market.

Our team of experienced recruiters specialises in connecting businesses with exceptional talent, ranging from skilled JavaScript, .NET, and Python developers to talented software engineers and product managers.

Stay ahead of the curve with our valuable insights into industry trends, hiring strategies, and emerging technologies. From in-depth reports to actionable tips, our resources are designed to empower your tech team and help you make informed decisions.

Ready to take your tech talent to the next level? Connect with MRJ today and discover how our tailored recruitment solutions can drive your business forward. Let us help you find the perfect talent to fuel your growth and innovation.