I would like to add a short personal message alongside the information enclosed.
International trade is a fundamental driver of economic growth. History has shown that open, trading economies generate wealth, create jobs, increase consumer choice, and can lead to higher standards of living. UK Export Finance (UKEF) is at the heart of the Trade and Industrial Strategies, which set out Government plans to help British businesses succeed in an overseas marketplace, driving sustainable growth and prosperity in the UK and abroad.
UKEF is the UK’s export credit agency and a government department, reporting into the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, and is strategically and operationally aligned with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT). Founded in 1919 as the world’s first export credit agency, we have been innovating since day one, and now have over 100 years’ track record supporting UK exports.
Our mission is to advance prosperity by ensuring no viable UK export fails for lack of finance or insurance, doing that sustainably and at no net cost to the taxpayer. To do this we provide loans, guarantees and insurance to help UK companies win overseas sales, fulfil export contracts, and make sure that they get paid. We exist to complement, not compete with the private sector, and work with over 100 private credit insurers and lenders.
In 2024-25 we provided a record £14.5 billion in financial support. We supported 667 UK exporters, of which 496 were SMEs.
This is an exciting time to join UKEF, and to play a key part in supporting the UK’s international trade goals and objectives.
Thank you for your interest in this role.
Robert Gillespie, Chair of UK Export Finance