Hope Capital Property Finance has promoted Kate Cowan to chief financial and operating officer (CFOO) as the specialist lender strengthens its senior team following a year of significant loan book growth.

Cowan (pictured) takes on the newly expanded chief financial and operating officer role having joined the business in 2019 as finance director and later becoming chief financial officer in 2023.

During her tenure as chief financial officer, Cowan has worked alongside chief executive Jonathan Sealey on the strategic direction of the lender, with a focus on sustainable commercial growth.

The lender said she has led major investment initiatives and played a central role in developing and launching new products. In 2025, the firm recorded a 61% increase in its loan book compared with year-end 2024, marking what it described as a record-breaking year.

In her new position, Cowan will retain oversight of the finance function while also taking responsibility for day-to-day operations across the business, with a remit to improve operational efficiency.

Cowan said: “I’m incredibly proud to step into the role of CFOO at such an exciting time for the business.

“Having been part of Hope Capital Property Finance’s journey for several years, I’ve seen first-hand how the team, the culture and the proposition have evolved.

“My focus will be on strengthening our operational foundations, supporting growth and ensuring we continue to deliver an exceptional service to our broker partners and clients.”

Sealey said: “Kate’s promotion to CFOO is thoroughly deserved.

“Since joining the business, Kate has played a crucial role in shaping our growth, driving investment and supporting the development of market-leading products.

“Her commercial insight, leadership and deep understanding of the business make her ideally placed to take on this role as we continue to build on our recent momentum.”