You may have seen our recent social media posts featuring some incredible artwork created by our founder, Alan Graham. It feels like the perfect moment to share a little more about the Keys story.
Some of our long-standing connections might remember that the journey began back in June 1982, when our Managing Director Owen’s father first founded Keys Financial Services Ltd. Since then, Keys has navigated many twists and turns, periods of growth, challenges, and a few bold reinventions. If nothing else, we’ve always embraced change.
In 1991, Alan Graham formally established Keys Financial Services Limited, focusing on office equipment leasing. It was the first step in building what would become a broader and more innovative business. Just five years later, in 1996, Keys Premium Finance Limited was formed, and the very first Insurance Premium Finance agreement was written, a pivotal moment that reshaped the company’s direction.
As the 2000s unfolded, Keys continued to evolve. By 2006, the business had moved into Professional Fee Finance, writing its first agreements in the sector. This was another example of spotting opportunity, adapting, and creating tailored solutions for our clients. In 2011, Keys expanded beyond its Northern Irish base into Scotland, England, and Wales, laying the groundwork for a trusted presence across the UK.
Milestones followed thick and fast. In 2016, we celebrated our 25th anniversary and expanded our Fee Finance offering into the Republic of Ireland. Then, in 2019, Keys posted record sales growth and moved into new, larger premises, signalling both confidence in the future and recognition of the incredible team behind the journey.
More recently, in 2022, Keys became a trusted Benefits+ Partner of ICAEW and, shortly after in July, a Member Benefits Partner of Chartered Accountants Ireland. These partnerships underscore our standing within the professional community across these islands and our ongoing commitment to supporting clients across industries.
That momentum has carried into the present day. In October 2023, Keys Group became an associate member of BIBA, strengthening ties within the insurance community. In 2024, we achieved Cyber Essentials Plus certification, reflecting our commitment to the highest standards of data protection and security. And in 2025, we launched an enhanced portal for introducers and clients, offering improved functionality and security, a significant step forward in how we deliver our services.
While Keys has always been about financial innovation, one constant throughout has been the presence of Alan’s artwork on the walls of our offices. A passionate artist at heart, Alan often joked that finance was his “side gig,” while art was his true calling. He wasn’t entirely joking. His works have brought colour and inspiration into our workspaces and have gained recognition far beyond our walls. Alan was especially proud to have sold a piece through Sotheby’s, and his paintings have featured in both Irish and international auctions.
As a small tribute to his creativity, we’ve recently woven some of his artwork into our marketing materials. For us, it’s a reminder that while the Keys story is rooted in financial expertise, it’s also about people, passions, and the unique perspectives that shape who we are. From those early days in 1982 to the innovations of 2025, Keys has always been about combining innovation with integrity. And as we continue to grow, Alan’s vision, in both finance and art, remains at the heart of everything we do.
