Progression isn't something we just talk about at Secure Trust Bank (STB), it's something we like to show, and recently, we've had a very good reason to do so.
James Reeves and Alasdair Bowers, two of our talented real estate finance (REF) experts, have officially stepped into their new roles as relationship managers, following the successful completion at the REF Academy, which has helped shape their journey. It's what they've been doing on live deals that really tells the story.
Take Alasdair, for example. He's led a trio of residential property investment transactions across London, totalling around £4.6m, supporting a range of investment property financing needs.
Alasdair said: "The past 18 months have been a great learning experience, but more importantly, an opportunity to get stuck into real deals and build relationships. I'm looking forward to continuing to support clients, originating and delivering transactions that make a real impact."
James has taken his own trajectory with a slightly different mix of deals under his belt. His experience spans everything from a purpose-built student accommodation refinance in Edinburgh to delivering property development finance for projects such as Bruckland Development's Golden Manor scheme in London, and looks forward to continuing his development specialism in the future. In short, a varied introduction to the realities of the market.
James said: "Working across a variety of deals has given me a real appreciation for the depth of understanding required for residential development finance and investment property loans. Being able to learn from experienced colleagues while taking on more responsibility has been key and I'm excited to keep building."
For us, these promotions are about more than just titles. They're a reflection of the effort both have put in, the experience they've built, and the trust they've earned along the way.
As Managing Director John Griffin puts it: "James and Alasdair worked incredibly hard over the past 18 months, and it's been great to see their progress. These promotions are thoroughly deserved and capture the value they're already making to the team. We're excited about seeing them continue to grow and support our clients as they build on their careers."
Because ultimately, developing talent isn't just about ticking off milestones, it's about giving people the opportunity to step up, take ownership and deliver. And if recent months are anything to go by, James and Alasdair are doing exactly that.
Find out more at Real Estate Finance.