Ann Alexander (banker)
Ann Alexander | |
|---|---|
| Born | Ann Barber 1770 |
| Died | 1861-01-15 Reigate, England |
| Occupation(s) | Banker, bill broker |
| Known for | Head of A.M.Alexander and A. and G.W.Alexander financial enterprises |
Ann Alexander, born Ann Barber (1770 – 15 January 1861), was a British Quaker who distinguished herself as a banker and bill broker by heading the financial enterprises A.M.Alexander and A. and G.W.Alexander during an era when female leadership within the finance sector was uncommon.
Life
Originating from Eckington, Derbyshire, Ann initially pursued a career as a milliner before her 1801 marriage to Quaker William Alexander. William progressed from his role as a bank clerk to become an independent bill broker, establishing a prosperous business founded on trust. After his unexpected passing in 1819, Ann utilized her life insurance benefits to support the firm and took over its management.
The company operated under the name A.M.Alexander while she led it. Upon their eldest son reaching maturity in 1823, he entered the enterprise, leading to a renaming as A. and G.W.Alexander in 1824. At first, Ann held two-thirds of the profits with her son receiving one-third; by 1828, profit distribution was equal between them. Although her share diminished with the inclusion of additional partners, she retained one-third ownership and earned an annual income of £1,000 when she retired in 1838.
Her son, George William Alexander, gained recognition as a banker and fulfilled the role of treasurer for the British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society. Ann Alexander passed away in Reigate, leaving an estate valued near £14,000. The enterprise she once directed developed into Alexanders Discount plc, which remained operational as recently as 2000.