’The funding allows us to invest in our space, our systems and, most importantly, our people, so we can keep growing in Bedford while delivering the high level of service our clients rely on,’ says founder and chief executive
M&DH Insurance Services is expanding its headquarters and creating new career opportunities after securing an investment loan from Allica Bank.
The Bedford-based broker provides specialist cover to both corporate and individual customers, particularly within the construction and manufacturing sectors. It operates from a former school building that used to be attended by founder and chief executive Richard Hames.
The broker will use the finance from Allica Bank to support a move into the former school gym, creating additional space for growing teams and its in-house training facility M&DH Academy.
Launched in 2015, the academy provides structured training and career pathways for graduates and those new to insurance. More than 60% of staff, including directors, have progressed through the academy, helping the business retain talent locally while building long-term expertise.
The firm will also use the funds to invest in more technology.
Hames said: “Coming back to my old school and building a growing business here feels incredibly special.
”The funding from Allica Bank allows us to invest in our space, our systems and, most importantly, our people, so we can keep growing in Bedford while delivering the high level of service our clients rely on.”
Growth projection
M&DH projects income from premiums to exceed £30m over the next 12 months.
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The team will focus on sustainable growth, alongside growing relationships with its existing customers.
Wahid Nawaz, Allica Bank’s relationship manager, said: “M&DH is a standout example of a growth-focused business with strong local roots.
”As it expands nationally while staying true to Bedford, its commitment to developing people is clear and it’s exactly the kind of ambition we’re proud to support. Having grown up locally myself, it’s especially rewarding to work with Hames and the team and see first-hand just how passionate they are about our community.”
His career began in 2019, when he joined a local north London newspaper after graduating from the University of Sheffield with a first-class honours degree in journalism.
He took up the position of deputy news editor at Insurance Times in March 2023, before being promoted to his current role in May 2024.View full Profile
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