The Five Minute Interview with Helen Searle, Business Development Manager, Regentsmead

By Tony Sanchez 13th January 2017

Regentsmead is a multi-award winning principal lender of property development finance for new builds, refurbishment and conversion projects.

Originating in 1934 their knowledge and experience means they do a lot more than simply provide development finance. Regentsmead are renowned for offering an incomparable five star service for brokers and clients alike. All of their clients receive a personal service which can be adapted to their individual needs.

We speak to Business Development Manager, Helen Searle:

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

Every case is unique and no two days are ever the same. Helping clients complete difficult projects always makes my day.

What keeps you focussed?

My clients and my family keep me motivated.

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

I like my colleagues to be friendly and share my enthusiasm for the industry which was part of the appeal of joining Regentsmead. A great sense of humour goes a long way as well.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

Definitely an optimist. Even the Dalai Lama said , choose to be optimistic, it feels better!

What did you want to be as a child?

As a child I wanted to be either a criminal lawyer or a coroner. Clearly I watched too many crime dramas on t.v.

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

Uncertainty is going to cause a lot of problems going forward, especially now we have had the Brexit vote and Trump coming in as president. Markets never respond well to uncertainty so it’s intriguing to see where we go from here.

Who or what makes you laugh?

My dad always makes me laugh with his very dry, quick humour or just recounting stories of his antics as a kid!

Do you dread Monday mornings?

Occasionally but the weekend has to end sometime.

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

I would want to be taller. I always seem to end up behind really tall people at events and can’t see anything.

With whom would you most like to have dinner?

Marilyn Monroe – she had an incredible career and forged a path for future women in film which is often overlooked. The mystery behind her death is also really intriguing.