The appointment comes as the group has appointed a total of 12 mid-market champions across UK nations and regions, part of its “growing together” plan to drive UK wide growth by supporting regional economies and the midsized firms behind them.

The announcement was made at the first Mid-Market Growth Council reception hosted by the Chancellor of the Exchequer at 11 Downing Street this Tuesday (10 March).

Recent NatWest research shows that nine in ten of mid-market businesses say a visible regional leader would support their company growth (90%) and help economic growth in their region (91%). In addition, 89% of mid-market companies surveyed said that having a visible regional leader representing mid-market firms would be very or somewhat beneficial in influencing positive policy outcomes with devolved and local government. Mid-market firms remain deeply rooted in – and critical to – their local communities, with three quarters (74%) saying their regional economies are fundamental drivers of economic growth.

The appointment of the Champions is designed to address this directly, helping the bank to drive stronger regional economies and be the trusted partner for the people building in those economies.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves commented: “Our economic plan is the right one and central to it are strong regions powered by medium-sized businesses. It’s clear those businesses will welcome Mid-Market champions and their role to support regional growth across the country.”

Paul Thwaite, Group CEO, NatWest commented: “As the number one bank for mid-sized businesses, this initiative will further strengthen our regional footprint, enabling an even deeper understanding of mid-market customers and accelerating their growth.

“The potential of mid-markets should not be underestimated; just 1% growth in this segment could add £35bn to the UK economy, with £24bn of that outside the South East of England.”

Mid-market companies are crucial to regional economies, often employing a large proportion of their local community. They contribute most significantly to employment in the West Midlands (24%), North East England (23%), Yorkshire (22%), the Humber and Scotland (27%). In aggregate they employ more than 1.2 million more individuals than large non-financial corporates.

Drawing on deep regional expertise, the Champions will be a strong voice for mid-market businesses, feeding into the work of the Mid-Market Growth Council – a forum that brings together business leaders, representative bodies and government to provide a platform for this segment and drive action that supports growth. They will develop insights into local customer needs, shape regional priorities for the Council, and strengthen NatWest’s convening power to unlock growth opportunities across the country.

Mr Havelock said: “Mid-sized businesses, like Anderson Strathern, have a vital role in delivering the growth that Scotland needs to succeed.

“As Scotland’s largest bank for mid-sized businesses, it is absolutely essential that the Royal Bank of Scotland is full square behind unlocking the barriers to growth that these businesses face.

“I am absolutely delighted at being appointed to this role and look forward to using this platform to build a stronger Scottish economy through championing the interests of mid-sized businesses.”

Murray McCall, managing partner of Anderson Strathern, added: “Mid-market businesses, such as ours, play a vital role in Scotland contributing to employment and growth. However, we can often be overlooked in terms of representation, when compared with small businesses and large corporates alike.

“The appointment of regional mid-market champions by Royal Bank of Scotland represents a step change.

“The direct support of specialists who have local knowledge, understand our businesses and Scotland, will strengthen our capabilities to drive further growth in our business. And that is very welcome news for our business and the communities across our region.”

To mark the first anniversary of the Mid-Market Growth Council, the Chancellor hosted a reception at No.11 Downing Street on 10 March, bringing together key Council members alongside over 50 mid-market business leaders from across the UK. The event underscored the vital role mid-market firms play in driving regional and national growth, reflecting findings that highlight the importance businesses place on visible regional leadership and a stronger collective mid-market voice.

By championing mid-sized businesses, NatWest Group reaffirms its commitment to driving sustainable growth and prosperity throughout the UK with a continued focus on devolved nations and regions.