Meet the Lender: Alastair Logan, Ultimate Finance

Our meet the lender series returns with Alastair Logan, senior regional director at Ultimate Finance. With more than 17 years in the sector and over 600 businesses supported, Alastair has seen the market change many times. He talks about demand, the rise of tech, the value of strong partners and why relationships still shape the best outcomes for SMEs.

What trends are you currently seeing in the market?

We’re seeing strong demand for working capital from owner-managed firms to larger SMEs. As some bank-owned factors leave the market, more businesses are looking for relationship-led funders with appetite and speed. Growth is still a key driver too with more enquiries for cash flow to support expansion and acquisitions. We’re also structuring more multi-product solutions to release extra cashflow.

What advice would you give to businesses seeking financing for the first time?

Be clear on the why and what you need. What do you want the funding to achieve and in what timeframe? Have up-to-date accounts, aged debtor and creditor lists and a simple forecast, as these will speed up the process. Choose a broker who can connect you to a relationship-led funder able to tailor a facility to your needs.

Do you foresee the lending landscape changing in the next few years and if so, how will this impact finance?

Yes. Technology will keep moving fast. More lenders are using Open Banking and Open Accounting data, e-signature software, online ID checks and smarter analytics that speed up onboarding and reduce friction. But relationships still matter. Our approach is relationship-led and tech-enabled. We invest in tools that help decisions move fast, while keeping a low client to relationship manager ratio so clients get experienced support throughout.

What motivates you personally in your work as a lender?

I’ve been with Ultimate Finance for over 17 years and have helped more than 600 businesses access the funding they needed to grow, acquire or work through tougher trading. Seeing that progress firsthand and helping my introducer base solve their clients funding needs is genuinely rewarding.

How long have you been working with Evolve Business Finance and how has the partnership benefited your business?

I’ve worked with Stef and the Evolve team since they started. As former lenders, they know exactly how to package a deal and what information matters, which speeds up assessment and helps us build the right structure first time. It’s a straightforward, collaborative relationship focused on getting the best outcome for clients and we’re keen to keep building on that.

Can you share something about yourself that people might be surprised to learn?

I recently got married. We met while I was on a work trip 12 years ago, so I have invoice finance to thank for my wife.