The Five Minute Interview with Dawn Trustam, Business Development Manager, Funding 365

By Tony Sanchez 27th January 2016

Funding 365 is a fast-growing bridging lender with integrity who’s shaking up the industry – combining the lowest rates offered by the bigger lenders with the bespoke service and quick processing capabilities of a smaller firm.

We speak to business development manager, Dawn Trustam:

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

This is a common sense lending sector. If the LTV and risk are reflected in the interest rate and the exit strategy is solid, then there’s no reason that a loan cannot be done.

This means that there’s a much greater variety of loans than in traditional mortgage lending, which makes each day completely different and keeps me on my toes.

What keeps you focused?

Knowing that each and every case we complete helps someone to achieve the next steps for their business.

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

That we get on! As someone in sales, it’s good to get on with lots of people!

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

Definitely an optimist, unless it’s my wine glass that’s half empty.

What did you want to be as a child?

A vet, until I realised that that also meant having to look after spiders and lizards.

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

I know that everyone says it, but the regulation coming in March.

Who or what makes you laugh?

My twin girls, who have a great sense of humour. For example, I was asked if I knew what BC stood for. I said, “Yes – Before Christ.” I returned the question with, “What does AD stand for?” The reply was, “Easy mummy – After Dinosaurs!” I rest my case.

Do you dread Monday mornings?

Definitely not – I have only been with Funding 365 for a small period of time, but it really is a breath of fresh air how they consider deals and the speed at which they can get things done.

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

Am I only limited to one??

With whom would you most like to have dinner?

My best friend, Indi. She has lived in New Zealand for the past 10 years and while we speak regularly it’s not the same as seeing her, so it would be great to sit down with her over a good meal and a couple of bottles of wine.