The Five Minute Interview with Pauline O’Gorman, Operations Manager, Hope Capital

By Tony Sanchez 2nd September 2014

Hope Capital is a 100% privately funded specialist provider of bridging loans.

This short term financing is secured as a first or second charge (not stand alone) against a property or a number of properties depending on the circumstances.

It is usually required when standard lending criteria cannot be met or the time constraints of the deal mean that high street lenders are unable to perform.

We speak to Operations Manager, Pauline O’Gorman:

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

The variety. Every enquiry is different even though the request is the same, the people and the speed we aim to get it delivered changes, therefore you are constantly thinking of how we can get over the obstacles and deliver.

What keeps you focused?

Making sure I’ve done everything I can to help meet the request. The feeling of success when we achieve it.

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

Supportive and someone who looks for what works well not just what doesn’t work. Willing to engage and listen, and of course someone who’ll laugh with you.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

Definitely a glass half full person, you can’t afford to waste time thinking about all the things that are wrong or didn’t work…life is too short.

What did you want to be as a child?

A window dresser, I remember my dad taking me into the city at Christmas and all the shop windows were lit up and I thought it was beautiful.

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

Regulated loans and the competition.

Who or what makes you laugh?

Other people who are laughing it’s infectious.

Do you dread Monday mornings?

I don’t dread Monday mornings, sometimes it’s just a regret I didn’t do all things I wanted to do at the weekend.

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

Nothing I’ve given up looking for all the things I don’t like about myself – no ones perfect.