Enra Specialist Finance has appointed Preben Prebensen as its new chairman following the acquisition of Enra by Elliott Advisors.

Prebensen (pictured) successfully led Close Brothers Group as CEO from 2009 to 2020. During that time Close Brothers tripled the size of its specialist lending business while also building successful wealth management and equity trading businesses.

Following his success at Close Brothers, Prebensen has assumed a number of other corporate roles, including chair of RiverStone International, a specialist insurance company as well as serving on the board of British Land as the senior independent director.

Prebensen said: “I’m joining Enra at an exciting time as the business continues to grow and establish itself as the UK’s leading non-bank specialist lender. My role will be to advise and support Danny and the team who have done a great job establishing Enra and I very much look forward to working with them, and with Elliott Advisors who bring deep expertise and resources as owners.”

Danny Waters, founder and CEO of Enra, added: “Preben brings unrivalled experience as well as a real passion and enthusiasm to help us achieve our ambitions as we continue to build the UK’s leading non-bank specialist lender. I am exceptionally proud of what we have achieved as a company already. We have never been stronger or better placed, and with Preben and Elliott on board I’m sure we will go on to even greater success.”