Reading: New HQ in the pipeline for growing tech company Ultima Business Solutions

A growing technology company is set to build a bespoke HQ and create at least 80 new jobs thanks to help from NatWest.

Ultima Business Solutions, 25 years old this year, provides IT infrastructure to public and private sector customers, involving everything from basic hardware supply right through to the most complex, bespoke IT solutions, involving highly-skilled IT technicians and consultants.

As part of its ongoing expansion, Ultima has purchased a business and technology campus adjacent to its current base on the Basingstoke Road in Reading.  The new campus currently consists of two properties, together comprising 67,000 sq ft, and space to design and construct a third building of 21,000 sq ft.

Founder and CEO Max McNeill said: “This third building will house Ultima’s brand-new, bespoke HQ and will accommodate our growing sales and back office teams.

“We currently have a total headcount of 320 and by the end of March 2016 we aim to have more than 400.

“On our current site we operate from two buildings – our existing HQ and a state-of-the-art Technical Services Centre (TSC).  Once the new HQ is built, we intend to rent out the existing HQ but will still be maintaining and operating from the TSC.

“I am very excited by the plans. Once the new HQ is finished, Ultima will have one of the most advanced and prestigious campus sites in the IT industry.  It will also provide us with an even greater profile and presence in Reading with offices on either side of Manor Farm Road.”

One of the two properties on the new campus already has tenants in place and the other, a 50,000 sq ft building, is currently being redeveloped.

In addition to its Reading expansion, the firm has also recently tripled its office space in London.

Ultima borrowed £4.5 million late last year from NatWest to complete works including a refurbishment of its TSC, which is next to its HQ. Now it has borrowed a further £5.625m for the purchase of the new campus.

McNeill said: “We had just 24 hours to complete, so we spoke to NatWest who gave us an indication they would be interested in helping us.  I was very impressed by the bank’s flexibility and responsiveness.”

Andrew Parker, relationship director who works with NatWest’s specialist technology team in the Thames Valley, said: “Ultima is already a fantastic business and Max has a clear strategy of where he wants to take it.

“It is key for NatWest to understand that strategy as well as the sector the business operates in so that we can help Max achieve his ambitions. I’m really pleased that Ultima can now embark on the next phase of its growth.”

McNeill said: “This, to me, is more than just a property investment.  Ultima has been a Reading-based company from day one and it is great that with the support and assistance of NatWest we are able to continue expanding and contributing to the local economy, offering both skilled employment opportunities and meeting the IT needs of Thames Valley businesses.”