Hope Capital’s managing director Bailey to depart

Prior to joining the company in 2019 he ran his own consultancy for the regulated and unregulated sectors for around five years, and before that was a sales director at Together, where he worked for around 20 years.

Bailey said that he was “proud” of his contribution to the “current and future success” of Hope Capital, pointing to the strong brand, service levels, infrastructure and values.

He added: “The innovative proposition and outstanding diversified product range, with more to come shortly, places them in a strong market-leading position to grow even further.”

Bailey thanked Jonathan Sealey, CEO of Hope Capital, for the opportunity, adding it had been a privilege to work with him and the board.

Sealey said: “Gary joined us to develop and execute a business growth strategy. Despite the economic and market challenges over the past three years, he has kept us focused, introduced insightful data analysis and transformed the business, enabling us to react to the unprecedented challenges with great success.”

Hope Capital: Strongest business pipeline ever

He said that during his tenure Bailey has brought in a range of colleague benefits, secured its largest ever distribution, record performing loan book and its strongest business pipeline in its 11-year history.

Sealey noted: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time working with Gary, he has succeeded in putting in place everything required to bring the business to this pre-determined point. Hope can now confidently drive forward with the rest of the plan. His support and direction leaves Hope Capital in a great position to continue this growth.”

Bailey said that he did not have “specific plans” moving forward but would “look at opportunities as they arrive”.

He continued: “With over 30 years’ experience in specialist lending, I have a wealth of transferable skills, knowledge and experience, across both the unregulated and regulated lending sectors, helping to guide businesses through periods of change, development and growth, whilst delivering excellent service and quality customer outcomes.

“So, I’m really looking forward to having positive conversations with business leaders who feel they can utilise my transferable skills and experience, helping to provide direction for a business to achieve its potential.”