‘I’m always striving to achieve the next goal’

In our latest Five Minute Interview, Tony Sanchez speaks to Sam Lea, Business Development Manager at Hope Capital.

Sam joined Hope Capital in March 2022 having previously undertaken various roles within the financial services sector. He served as Business Development Manager for Dudley Building Society for over 4 years and most recently worked as a Financial Adviser.

He also holds CeMAP, CeRER and DipFA qualifications. This range of experience means he is well placed to support the brokers and borrowers of Hope Capital.

Sam fully understands that high-quality service is essential in ensuring the smooth processing of any bridging loan and enjoys working closely with brokers to find the best solution for their clients.

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

Most BDMs probably say something similar, but one of the best things has to be that no two deals are the same, meaning the nature of the role varies on each individual case.

Working in the unregulated space is also an aspect I really enjoy, as this means we can have more flexibility on the solutions we can provide and are not tied to rigid rules and restrictions.

Also, being a people person, I really appreciate having the opportunity to build relationships with brokers – it makes my job a lot more enjoyable to actually meet and get to know people, rather than just sitting behind a computer screen.

What keeps you focused?

My drive and ambition to succeed is definitely what keeps me on track.

I’m always striving to achieve the next goal and look at how I can do that, whether through personal development and growth or by working within our team.

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

People who are light-hearted, honest and fair.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

I would definitely say I’m mainly an optimist, however as I am getting older, I am much more realistic about things.

To me, being a realist means avoiding excessive optimism and pessimism, as I think a balance between the two is the best approach.

What did you want to be as a child?

A footballer. I used to play football a lot when growing up but unfortunately, I peaked when I was 13, so naturally working in the finance sector was the next obvious option…!

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

There is so much uncertainty in the economy at the moment. While it seems the worst of Covid-19 is thankfully behind us, the rise in inflation, materiel costs and so forth is creating many other issues and predicaments for all kinds of people.

This is why at Hope Capital our top priority is to keep a close eye on what’s going on and then create and deliver affordable solutions which will help keep the property market moving in the right direction.

Who or what makes you laugh?

Anything – I’m always laughing! However, if I had to say one thing it would be watching FRIENDS.

I can binge watch that show any day of the week.

Do you dread Monday mornings?

Let’s be honest, I don’t think there is really anyone who would say they absolutely love Monday mornings.

However, by no means do I dread them. I think the important thing is making the most of your weekend, so you feel re-charged and ready for whatever the week ahead has in store.

Coffee is always needed though!

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

Following on from the previous question…to become more of a morning person!

With whom would you most like to have dinner?

Denzel Washington, who is my favourite actor. I just think he is really cool, interesting and would have plenty of stories to tell.

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