In this role, Richard will oversee the company’s commercial strategy and drive growth in the firm’s key markets of France, Spain, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Monaco, while also being responsible for the lender’s origination and marketing activity throughout Europe.

He will join the executive team and work closely with both the group and advisory boards to grow the European business.

Richard has 25 years of experience in the alternative finance sector, with a track record in business development, strategy execution, and market expansion.

Prior to joining Interbridge, Richard held senior leadership positions at Sancus Lending Group, where he was managing director of the company’s UK lending business.

Commenting on his new role, Richard said: “I am excited to join Interbridge Europe, the company has built a robust platform, including securing funding from a German pension fund, to meet the growing demand for short term finance in Europe.

“The market is less well developed than in the UK and I was drawn to the challenge of scaling a business in a developing market.

•   B&C Awards 2024: The Video
•   Interbridge Mortgages enters into second charge mortgages market
•   Interbridge launches bridging offering in Europe

“By building on our respected and knowledgeable team, I see a huge opportunity for us to become a significant force in European real estate finance.”

Sven Peter, CEO and founder of Interbridge Group (parent company to Interbridge Europe) also commented on Richard’s recruitment: “We are thrilled to have Richard on board as our new CCO.

“His extensive experience in the alternative finance sector and expertise in business development align perfectly with our growth objectives.

“Richard’s leadership will be instrumental as we continue to expand our services and deliver enhanced value to our clients across Europe.”

Charlotte Kolb-Keim, head of Europe at Interbridge Europe, added: “Richard’s experience in specialist real estate finance will be invaluable as we focus on expanding our footprint in Europe.

“We have built a strong network of professionals in the region and have developed best in class credit and deal structuring expertise.

“It’s the right time for us to build out our origination capability, and I’m delighted that Richard has chosen to join us.”