Latest news with #UniversalPartners
The Independent
3 days ago
- Business
- The Independent
Universal Partners co-founder on the 'interesting benefits' of partnering with the E2E Tech 100
Partnering with E2E for the Tech 100, allows Universal Partners to support and network with fast-growing entrepreneurs and disruptors, and learn about their growth trajectory and where the tech industry is headed. For Universal Partners, the future holds further AI integration, and acquiring different licenses outside the UK, allowing them to further service clients and provide them with different products. For more information and to see the full E2E Tech 100 2025 list click here.
The Independent
27-03-2025
- Business
- The Independent
Women show how they've powered their way to the top in business
There has been significant progress in British business when it comes to women holding senior positions. Initiatives like the 30% Club – a global campaign launched in the UK to increase the number of women on boards and holding senior roles – have had a real impact, with the proportion of board positions in the FTSE 350 held by women now standing at more than 40 per cent, up rapidly over the past decade. The launch of the E2Exchange, or E2E, Female Track 100 for 2025 was another mark of that progress. In association with The Independent, E2E, the leading business networking and mentoring organisation, has published the definitive index of the 100 fastest-growing female-led or founded private businesses in the UK. The list is based on their profits growth rates over the past three years. It's the first in a series of Track 100s to be produced this year. Others will cover different categories, including profitability, job creation, growth and exports. E2E has tens of thousands of members and rising. Their Track 100s are designed to showcase the best British companies that are excelling, exhibiting consistent dynamism and presenting disruptive business strategies to impact not just their own sector, but also on a nationwide – and in some cases, a global – scale. Shalini Khemka, founder of E2E, assembled a panel of female corporate stars to herald the unveiling: Alison Milam of Porta Romana, Anita Dougall from Sagacity Solutions, Brigitte or Brie Read of Snag Group, Charlotte Harrington at Belu Water and ITN's Rachel Corp. They were joined in discussion, before a large online audience, by two men, yours truly and Alex Shepherd from Universal Partners, the foreign currency payments provider that is partnering the Track 100s. First, Shalini said there was genuine cause for celebration but added, 'there is still a need for us.' The business community, media, politicians, they all require pushing and reminding; the foot should not be taken off the equality accelerator. Worryingly, the recent PwC Women in Work index shows that Britain has slumped to 18th among the largest OECD economic nations, its lowest position in a decade, for workplace parity. All agreed that women bring a different perspective from their male colleagues. Anita Dougall said in her experience they had more emotional intelligence and were better communicators and more able to get to the point quicker. Alison Milam concurred but added they also brought higher attention to detail and were able to think longer term and cover more bases. Things have improved. Alex Shepherd recalled how when he first joined the foreign exchange industry, it was heavily male dominated. No longer and certainly not at Universal Partners. Flexible working and increased childcare provision have undoubtedly helped. What was telling, though, was that while there was general nodding it was not entirely shared. In some sectors, like manufacturing and construction there is much to be done. Their jobs tend to be constant, five days a week, on the shop floor or on site. They struggle to offer the same leeway – not helped either by the fact their bosses tend to be male. What was clear as well, was the chasm between different parts of the country. In some areas, those collecting children from school each day are nearly all women – indicating there is little shared male/female childcare. Indeed, in parts of cities like London and certain industries, there is a danger in assuming everything is fine, when it plainly is not. There was talk, though, about the need to push ahead, to drive through the problems, and for individual woman to forge ahead. It was no use waiting for assistance, from an outside body, like the government or council, say, when none or only little was forthcoming. As Rachel Corp said: 'We are all facing the same challenges, we're all pushing through.' Charlotte Harrington said similar and stressed that while problems remain, women should also 'be proud of where we've got to.' Just as difficult, even more so, was the task of shouldering a brand with all the responsibility that brings in today's economic and political environment. As Brie Read stressed: 'This is a very tough time in which to be running a business.' That took us to the end. Clearly, there remains some distance to go, but women are breaking through – the panel and the E2E Female Track 100 supply conclusive proof of that.
The Independent
17-03-2025
- Business
- The Independent
E2E 100 Female: how Universal Partners are empowering entrepreneurs and driving global success
Founded in 2017 by Oliver Carson and Dhaval Patel, Universal Partners is on a mission to empower businesses to thrive globally, offering tailored financial solutions for companies navigating complex international markets. With a commitment to inclusion and diversity, Universal Partners has become a trusted partner for female entrepreneurs. Spotlight on Universal Partners' Visionary Leadership Universal Partners' Co-founders, Oliver Carson and Dhaval Patel, have led the company's success. Their combined expertise in finance, business strategy, and innovation has been instrumental in shaping the company's upward trajectory and fostering a culture of excellence. Both are deeply committed to supporting entrepreneurs and empowering them with the tools needed to navigate the challenges of international business. Oliver Carson, CEO and Co-Founder Oliver Carson is the driving force behind Universal Partners. As CEO and co-founder, he has built the company from its beginnings in his living room to becoming a global leader in financial services. His client-centric approach has been instrumental in establishing Universal Partners as a trusted partner for businesses worldwide. Oliver's focus on fostering a dynamic and inclusive workplace has earned Universal Partners industry-wide recognition, including being named in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024. His belief in the power of a motivated and diverse team has been a key factor in the company's continued growth and success. Dhaval Patel, Chairman and Co-Founder Dhaval Patel, Chairman and Co-founder Dhaval Patel's leadership has played an equally critical role in the company's success. As chairman and co-founder, Dhaval has led Universal Partners with a focus on innovation and strategic growth. His personal journey as an entrepreneur and story of overcoming early challenges is both inspiring and a testament to his resilience and dedication. Dhaval's focus on empowering clients and driving sustainable growth has positioned Universal Partners as a leader in the financial services industry. His leadership has been acknowledged through various accolades, including being shortlisted for the 2023 Great British Entrepreneur Awards in the Scale-Up Entrepreneur of the Year category. Universal Partners: A Financial Powerhouse for Women Entrepreneurs Universal Partners recognises the unique challenges entrepreneurs face. Their commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in their client-focused approach, offering the expertise and resources needed to overcome barriers. From its beginning, Universal Partners has supported female-led businesses, offering bespoke services that ensure entrepreneurs have access to the best financial tools available. Their deep understanding of the challenges women face allows them to provide solutions making a tangible difference. By supporting female entrepreneurs, Universal Partners plays a key role in supporting gender diversity in the business landscape. Tailored Financial Solutions Female entrepreneurs often face a lack of access to traditional funding pathways, which can hinder their ability to scale their businesses. Universal Partners steps in to bridge this gap, offering tailored financial solutions designed to meet their specific needs: • Flexible Funding Solutions: Providing investment opportunities that align with the goals and growth potential of high-growth businesses. These customised funding solutions ensure that women entrepreneurs have access to the capital they need to take their businesses to the next level. • Foreign Exchange Expertise: Expanding internationally can be a daunting task for many businesses, but Universal Partners' foreign exchange services make it easier for entrepreneurs to engage in cross-border trade. They enable businesses to expand globally without facing the high fees and challenges associated with traditional banking channels. • Strategic Financial Advisory: Beyond just offering financial products, Universal Partners provides expert guidance and advice to entrepreneurs. Their strategic advisory services help business leaders make informed decisions about investments, operations, and international growth, ensuring that their business is poised for long-term success. Driving Economic Growth Through Women-Led Businesses As global economies continue to evolve, female-led businesses have been key drivers of innovation and economic growth. Universal Partners is dedicated to supporting this by providing the financial tools, advisory services, and cross-border expertise that entrepreneurs need to succeed. Their mission is to foster an inclusive business ecosystem where women entrepreneurs are empowered, both locally and internationally. The company's unwavering commitment to inclusion is further demonstrated by its focus on creating opportunities for female-led businesses to thrive. Universal Partners works closely with clients to identify growth opportunities, optimise cash flow, and provide the resources necessary to scale their operations globally. Universal Partners: A Partner in the Future of Women Entrepreneurs Universal Partners has established itself as a financial powerhouse. By offering innovative financial services, expert advisory support, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by female-led businesses, Universal Partners continues to celebrate gender equality in the business world. Whether through strategic funding, global opportunities, or personalised financial guidance, Universal Partners is committed to helping businesses thrive on the world stage.
