United Trust Bank (UTB) has expanded its Property Development division with the appointment of two new managers as it continues to grow lending capacity for SME housebuilders and developers across England and Wales.
Keeley Hawkes has joined as manager supporting Daniel Carlisle, senior director – property development.
She brings experience from RBS, NatWest, Assured Property Finance and property developer Aitch Group.
In her new role, Hawkes will support housebuilders and developers across London and the South-East, helping deliver residential, mixed use and commercial schemes with flexible finance and developer exit solutions.
Abigail Argue has also joined as manager, supporting Luke Benton-Drury, director – property development.
With more than 20 years of banking and real estate finance experience, including 17 years at Close Brothers Property Finance where she was senior portfolio manager, Argue will work with housebuilders across the South-East, providing tailored funding solutions and support throughout the life of each loan.
The appointments follow a series of recent additions and promotions within the property development team, including Orla Costello as deputy head of originations, David Masters as associate director – intermediaries, and Ashley Collier as associate director – property development.
Earlier this year, UTB’s original development finance commitments passed £1.5bn for the first time, with more than £1bn of loans drawn.
The Bank also expanded into Build to Rent funding and estimates its lending is currently helping deliver around 4,500 new homes.
Adam Bovingdon, head of property development at United Trust Bank, said: “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.”
