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Under the Spotlight: Claire Hinde, Business Funding Executive
At UMi, we love spotlighting the people who make it easier for businesses to do more and go further. This month, we’re getting to know Claire Hinde, one of our Business Funding Executives within the UMi Get Funding team.
What is your role at UMi?
I work as a Business Funding Executive, supporting businesses through UMi’s Get Funding service.
Tell us about your career to date
I started my working life at only 14, spending my Saturdays at Geordie Jeans, a well‑known local shop in Sunderland. After that, I moved into a secretarial role at an advertising agency, which gave me my first real insight into the fast‑paced world of business.
I eventually built my long‑term career in banking, spending 18 years with Barclays. During that time I worked across lending, quality assurance and compliance. It helped me build a deep understanding of financial services and the importance of doing things right for customers.
What does your current role involve?
As part of the Get Funding service, I’m often the first point of contact for customers reaching out to UMi. I help businesses understand their funding needs and the support available to them through the service.
A key part of my role is triaging those needs and developing a tailored pathway to support. Every business is different, so I take the time to understand their goals and challenges before guiding them towards the next steps that will help them move forward.
No two days are the same, but the goal always is. I’m here to make funding and investment support straightforward and accessible for the businesses that need it most.
UMi Get Funding is all about personalised and practical support. We take the hard work out of finding finance by offering a bespoke service, backed by a team of experienced people who genuinely care about helping businesses grow. It’s not just about finding funding. It’s about finding the right solution.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
Outside of work, I’m happiest spending time with my family, taking short breaks and visiting new places of interest. I also love spending time in my garden, especially growing my own vegetables. And I look after a small menagerie of pets: a dog, a cat and an African pygmy hedgehog, who all keep me busy in their own ways.
Tell us one interesting fact about yourself
When I’m not gardening or exploring, you’ll probably find me gaming. I’m an avid Xbox player and I love the challenge and escapism it offers. It’s my favourite way to unwind.