Bridging lender Hope Capital has appointed Gary Bailey as its first managing director.

Bailey (pictured) was previously sales director of Together and joins the bridging lender today, 7 January.

Hope Capital has grown rapidly, having doubled its lending in the past year, increased its staff numbers by 40% and expanded into much larger premises.

It has plans to more than double its lending again both this year and the year after.

Bailey will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of Hope Capital so that CEO Jonathan Sealey can concentrate on the strategic growth of the company. 

Bailey has over 25 years’ experience in the specialist and complex finance markets, across leadership, banking and finance roles. 

Sealey said: “This is the first time that Hope Capital has appointed a managing director and it marks the next phase of our growth. Gary brings a wealth of industry knowledge and experience that will really help drive Hope Capital forward and achieve its ambitious growth plans.”

Bailey added: “I’m excited to be joining Hope Capital. Due to outside interests I’d had no intention of returning to the industry in a permanent role and had many offers ranging from new lenders to challenger banks, however the company values, ethos, aspirations and commitment of Jonathan and his board members was too much for me to resist.

“I know I can make a positive difference and add value to help Hope Capital achieve its ambitious growth plans. I am really looking forward to working with Jonathan and the team to help drive the next stage of Hope Capital’s growth and development.”