The Five Minute Interview with Andrew Keehner, Business Development Manager, Oblix Capital

By Tony Sanchez 27th April 2018

Oblix Capital provides bespoke short-term bridging and development finance, for both residential and commercial properties, throughout England and Wales.

Their aim is to make quick decisions, whilst remaining approachable, flexible and completely transparent.

We speak to Business Development Manager, Andrew Keehner:

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

I played a lot of chess as a junior and enjoy the continual problem solving. It is a fast-paced environment with very little being straightforward.

I love being able to use this problem-solving ability to find a way to help brokers with their clients.

What keeps you focused?

Knowing the most important thing for a broker is to be available and respond to any calls or enquiries as quick as you possibly can. You therefore need to always be ready and focussed.

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

To always be available for each other and have a willingness to work together to find a way. Having a firm knowledge of the business, products and market place is also essential.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

I’m a BDM, of course I am an optimist, in everything I do (sometimes to the annoyance of my wife).

I always want to see the best in people and take a positive spin wherever I can. It is the single most important trait for anyone in sales.

What did you want to be as a child?

Stereotypical child, I wanted to be a vet. I just recently tried to nurse a bee back to life with some honey. That’s about as close as I ever got.

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

I refuse to mention the ‘B’ word. I think the rate war is a bigger danger. It shows lenders are running out of ideas, but there is plenty more creativity and innovation to come.

It is great to be with a lender that clearly appreciates this.

Who or what makes you laugh?

My mates. I still join them every Thursday night for a game of football. They are always a constant source of amusement.

Do you dread Monday mornings?

I have kids, I welcome Monday mornings. Joking aside, there is always something I need to get stuck into as soon as the week starts.

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

Going to bed earlier. Sometimes needed but I hate leaving things until the morning. You will often find me responding to emails and enquiries at 11pm.

With whom would you most like to have dinner?

Kirsty Gallacher, always had a thing for her. Not sure my wife would approve though.