FOLK2FOLK has strengthened its national lending team with the appointment of Tracey Gott as relationship manager.

The platform, which has lent more than £780 million since its launch in 2013, connects local businesses with investors to deliver property-backed loans starting from £100,000. These funds are used by SMEs to support growth, diversification and new business initiatives in towns and rural communities across the country.

Gott (pictured) joined the business earlier in the summer and has already made an impression among FOLK2FOLK’s broker partners.

She brings more than 30 years of experience in financial services, including 18 years at Barclays and a six-year tenure as a senior business manager at a commercial brokerage.

She is CeMAP-qualified and known for her practical approach to problem-solving, attention to detail and people-focused ethos.

Roy Warren, managing director of FOLK2FOLK, welcomed the appointment. “Tracey’s experience on both sides of the lending relationship – as a broker and now as a lender – gives her a unique perspective,” he said.

“She understands what matters to brokers, clients and lenders alike, and she brings an energy and empathy that’s already proving valuable. We’re delighted to have her on the team.”

Reflecting on the transition from broker to lender, Gott noted the advantage of being able to see the process from both sides. “I’m learning to think like a lender but I can already see how valuable my broker perspective is,” she said.

“I think there’s real strength in wearing both hats as it helps with understanding and enables smarter conversations all around.”

In her new role, Gott works as part of FOLK2FOLK’s national relationship management team, supporting the business’s mission to provide fast, flexible and secured finance to growing SMEs. She will continue to work closely with brokers to assess borrower needs and structure bespoke lending solutions.