‘I like doing a job well and being able to look back with pride’

By Tony Sanchez 26th July 2022

In our latest Five Minute Interview, Tony Sanchez speaks to Nikhil Shah, Senior Underwriter at Funding 365

Funding 365 encourages brokers to speak directly to its multi-tasking underwriters. These super underwriters aim to deliver bespoke, credit-backed bridging terms in just one hour, then personally manage each loan through to completion and beyond.

Nikhil, joined Funding 365 through their graduate scheme with a degree in Finance. He quickly made a name for himself amongst brokers and borrowers, who have described him as, ‘outstanding’, ’fantastic’ and ‘an absolute star’.

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

For me, it’s a combination of the characters I work with and the fast-paced and varied nature of the industry.

The brokers that work with me will know that I enjoy discussing deals on the phone – no two deals are the same, which keeps things fresh.

What keeps you focused?

My determination to deliver the best service possible. I like doing a job well and being able to look back with pride.

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

I’m lucky to work with talented colleagues who are great at analysing problems and coming up with bespoke solutions.

If I ever have an especially challenging deal, it’s good to be able to have an open forum to discuss and find different ways to solve it.

An interest in football, and Arsenal, preferably, is a bonus.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

Cautious optimist. You have to balance possibilities with, or perhaps sometimes against, realities.

What did you want to be as a child?

A professional basketball player. I still fulfil this at the weekend with my mates, but the standard is probably lower.

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

It will be interesting to see how rising interest rates affect the market.

Who or what makes you laugh?

Playing sport with my mates. My free time is mostly filled with either football, cricket or basketball, which is great fun – especially when I’m winning!