The Five Minute Interview with Jim Baker, Business Development Manager, Masthaven Bridging Finance

By Tony Sanchez 11th April 2014

Masthaven Bridging Finance is an FCA regulated multi award winning lender that paid out its first loan in 1983.

In that time Masthaven has become a regular port of call for brokers, intermediaries and IFA’s alike wishing to place first and second charge bridging loans along with renovation and refurbishment deals.

With backing from the William Pears Group and Saffron Building Society amongst others Masthaven is one of the true leading lights in the bridging finance arena.

We speak to Business Development Manager, Jim Baker:

What is the best thing about being in the bridging finance business?

I love the variety of people I get to deal with and the different challenges of every new enquiry.

What keeps you focussed?

The desire to help and always provide the best possible service to everyone I deal with.

What qualities do you look for in your employees or colleagues?

I like honesty, integrity, a friendly, positive and happy disposition and a desire to provide the best possible service ;o)

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

Always optimistic. I find pessimism brings about negative results

What did you want to be as a child?

Always fancied being a rock guitarist or professional footballer.

What will be the greatest challenge facing the bridging finance industry in the coming months?

As the property market continues to pick up, the demand for surveyors services will increase and put real pressure on their ability to meet turnaround times.

This will undoubtedly create a challenge in a market where service delivery is critical.

Who or what makes you laugh?

Quick witted people and situational comedy.

Do you dread Monday mornings?

Good question! I don’t at all but if I did, I would ask serious questions of myself and my life.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Having to work Monday mornings! Hahaha! Being serious, it would be to have a good singing voice. I can sing in tune, but I sound awful.

With whom would you most like to have dinner?

I’d like to share a meal with all my family and the ones who are now departed. It would be amazing to meet them again and for them to meet my children and vice versa.