Bridging lender Hope Capital has made two appointments in the past month and is set to take on new premises, more than doubling its office space.

Rachel Harkins has become business development manager (BDM) for Wales and the South West while Gemma Bancroft joins Hope Capital as a case manager.

Bancroft, who has worked in financial services for 14 years, will liaise with valuers and solicitors, as well as brokers and clients during the application process. She will also work with the internal underwriting department to ensure a smooth and speedy turnaround, keeping all parties up to date at all times.

Harkins has worked in the funding proposals market for nearly five years and is now responsible for developing new business across Wales and the South West.

Hope Capital’s loan book, which has at least doubled in size every year since its inception in 2011, is on target to reach its highest level in the company’s history by the end of the year.

Jonathan Sealey (pictured), chief executive officer of Hope Capital, said: “2017 has been another exciting year of growth for us, and these two key appointments will be instrumental in the continued development of Hope Capital. We are very much a service-focused lender, so when recruiting we always look for individuals who really understand the need for quick turnaround times, as well as having an extensive knowledge of the market and strong, long-standing relationships.

“We have expanded our team by 30% this year. Our recruitment drive ensures we continue to be the bridging lender of choice, not only for the more specialist bridging cases, but across the board. Being a principal lender means we not only provide an excellent service but have the ability to look at each case on its own merits. It also means that we always keep our lending promises. I believe it is this capability that has ultimately led to our continued to success in the market.”