James Briggs takes on the role of intermediary sales director at Afin Bank, aiming to boost relationships with brokers and aid under-served clients.
- His appointment follows 25 years of experience in the specialist mortgage market, including roles at Together Personal Finance and Precise Mortgages.
- Afin Bank plans to launch next year, focusing on clients with specialist needs who are often overlooked by mainstream lenders.
- The bank will cater to diverse groups, including self-employed individuals and Africans in the UK, while partnering with diaspora communities.
- By employing advanced technology, Afin Bank aims to streamline the lending process for brokers and borrowers alike.
James Briggs has joined Afin Bank as the intermediary sales director, a move that marks a significant step for the newly formed lender. With a career spanning over a quarter of a century, Briggs has honed his expertise in the specialist mortgage sector, working with well-known institutions such as Together Personal Finance and Precise Mortgages. His wealth of experience is expected to foster strong ties with brokers, crucial as Afin Bank positions itself for the full-scale launch anticipated next year.
Afin Bank emerges with a distinct purpose: to provide solutions for clients who find it challenging to secure loans through traditional high street banks or do not fit the conventional criteria used by other specialist lenders. Its offerings will particularly benefit the self-employed, those with high net worth, and clients building non-standard career paths. Additionally, the bank is set to aid Africans residing in the UK, who may face financial barriers due to their nationality, visa status, or limited credit history. As Afin Bank expands, its services are expected to appeal broadly to other under-represented diaspora communities.
With an eye towards innovation and efficiency, Afin Bank plans to utilise cutting-edge technology to minimise bureaucratic hindrances during the lending process. This forward-thinking approach is designed to benefit both brokers and borrowers by creating smoother interactions and reducing friction in securing finance. Partnerships with cultural networks and diaspora groups are envisioned as part of Afin Bank’s strategy to deepen its community outreach and broaden its support base.
Alan Davison, chief commercial officer at Afin Bank, expressed enthusiasm over Briggs’ appointment, highlighting his comprehensive knowledge of the specialist lending market and his proven ability to cultivate enduring distribution partnerships. Davison emphasised Afin Bank’s commitment to treating its customers and brokers with fairness and respect, values deeply embedded in its business ethos. Briggs echoed this sentiment, expressing his eagerness to collaborate with brokers and contribute to Afin Bank’s mission of developing a competitive range of products tailored to the intermediary community’s diverse needs.
James Briggs’ appointment signifies Afin Bank’s commitment to enhancing support for under-served borrowers through strategic partnerships and technological innovation.
