Signature Property Finance has appointed Michael Clifford as its first commercial director.

Clifford (pictured) joins following senior business development, product and strategy roles at Santander, Hodge Bank, Glenhawk and most recently OakNorth Bank.

Signature CEO Tony Gilbertson said: “We have recorded year-on-year growth in the last four years, but refuse to rest on our laurels. We have set ourselves ambitious targets and recruiting talented individuals of Michael’s calibre, will help us realise our commercial objectives.

“Michael is an innovator, with a unique talent for product delivery, strategic planning, risk management, and team leadership, all aspects of our business we recognise will be key to achieving our long-term goals.

“Whilst his arrival might reduce the average age of our team, he brings the financial sector expertise and experience that will make a difference not only to the service we deliver our clients, but to the team that provides that service.

“Michael will not be dealing directly with clients in the first instance, but working hard as a member of the senior management team, to shape our product offering and service experience to better reflect the changing needs of the market.”

Clifford added: “At this stage in my career, it was important to find a role and an employer that reflected my personal ambition and with Signature, I immediately felt a connection.

“In recent years their performance has attracted attention and it has been obvious they are offering what brokers and their clients want. With so much change in the industry, finding a business that knows what it is and is comfortable in that role is refreshing.

As a well-managed business with an experienced senior team, I believe I can be the difference that takes Signature to the next level in support of property developers across the UK, who value certainty of funding and speed of execution.”