United Trust Bank (UTB) has announced two new appointments to its growing Property Development division as the Bank continues to expand its lending capacity and support for SME housebuilders and developers across England and Wales.
Keeley Hawkes has joined as Manager supporting Daniel Carlisle, Senior Director – Property Development. Keeley brings a wealth of experience in the real estate finance and construction sectors gained from roles with RBS, NatWest, mezzanine lender Assured Property Finance, and property developer Aitch Group. In her new role, she will use her expertise to support housebuilders and developers across London and the South-East, helping them to deliver high-quality residential, mixed use and commercial development schemes with flexible development finance and developer exit solutions.
Abigail Argue has also joined as Manager, supporting Luke Benton-Drury, Director – Property Development. Abigail brings more than 20 years of experience in real estate and structured finance, including 17 years with Close Brothers Property Finance where she most recently served as Senior Portfolio Manager. She will focus on supporting housebuilders operating across the South-East of England, helping to deliver tailored funding solutions and excellent service throughout the life of each loan.
This announcement follows Orla Costello’s recent appointment as Deputy Head of Originations in Property Development, David Masters’ appointment as Associate Director – Intermediaries, and Ashley Collier’s promotion to Associate Director – Property Development and comes at a time when UTB continues to achieve record growth in its property development business.
Earlier this year, the Bank’s original development finance loan commitments surpassed £1.5bn for the first time, with more than £1bn of loans drawn. UTB also broadened its offering to include Build to Rent (BTR) funding to support the development and operation of purpose-built homes for rent. The Bank estimates that its funding is currently helping to deliver around 4,500 new homes at any one time.
Adam Bovingdon, Head of Property Development – United Trust Bank, commented: “Keeley and Abigail joined the team at an exciting time for UTB as we continue to grow our development finance business and broaden the support we provide to SME housebuilders and developers. They each bring a wealth of experience and insight from across the property finance sector, and they’re already making a great contribution to the team.Together, they strengthen our ability to deliver the flexible funding solutions, consistency and excellent service that our customers and broker partners value so highly.”