Specialist lender Catalyst Property Finance has announced the appointment of Becky Harris to a newly created dual role as chief financial officer and chief operating officer.

Harris (pictured) joins the Bournemouth-based lender from MSP Capital, where she spent more than eight years. She began her time there as finance manager and rose to finance and operations director.

Her arrival at Catalyst signals a step change for the business as it looks to scale further in the specialist lending market. The combined role is designed to streamline financial and operational leadership as the lender targets what it described as an ambitious growth trajectory.

Chris Fairfax, chief executive at Catalyst, welcomed the appointment, saying: “We are thrilled to welcome Becky to Catalyst in this pivotal new role. Her exceptional blend of financial acumen and operational expertise will be critical as we navigate our next phase of expansion.

“This appointment reflects our dedication to building a resilient and scalable business, and Becky’s leadership will undoubtedly enhance our capabilities across the board.”

Harris said she was joining the business at an “exciting time”, and pointed to the alignment between her experience and the lender’s goals. “There are great synergies and opportunities for us to grow the business, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success,” she said.

Harris’s remit will include shaping financial strategy while also ensuring that the operational infrastructure supports the company’s long-term objectives.

The appointment is effective immediately.