The Five Minute Interview with Colin Sanders, CEO, Omni Capital

By Tony Sanchez 7th December 2011

Omni Capital is a new-generation specialist lender providing bespoke finance solutions to the unregulated residential bridging and short-term markets. We speak to chief executive officer, Colin Sanders:

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

Having previously worked in the mass-volume mortgage sector, I thoroughly enjoy the ‘hands-on’ nature of bridging.

Each deal is very different and has its own character and nuances requiring a thoughtful, bespoke approach.

What keeps you focused?

Performance against target. As CEO, the buck stops with me.

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

Just as every bridging deal is different, so are the people in my team. Some have strengths best suited to a ‘front office’ role, while others thrive in a different environment.

What they have in common is a strong work ethic, skill and experience. Perhaps even more importantly, they are loyal – to me and each other – and trustworthy.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

My glass is always half full.

What did you want to be as a child?

A police officer.

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

Competition – brought about by more lenders fighting for a share of a relatively small market.

Who or what makes you laugh?

A 2009 film called ‘The Hangover’. The sequel wasn’t bad but not a patch on the original. I also like Alan Carr, the ‘Toothy Man’.

Do you dread Monday mornings?

I never have – it’s the start of a new week of fresh opportunity. What’s to dread?

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

My wife says I should grow a thicker skin and more hair on my head. I think I should change my wife….(only joking, my Precious)