The Five Minute Interview with Kate Cowan, Finance Director, Hope Capital

By Tony Sanchez 22nd October 2019

Hope Capital is a provider of short-term finance secured against property, their proposition is driven by their desire to provide fast, flexible solutions to clients who have short term funding needs and wish to partner with an experienced lender who is dedicated to improving the reputation of the sector through education, pro-active communication and greater collaboration, between all parties.

We speak to finance director, Kate Cowan:

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

No two days are the same. You come in every day thinking one thing is happening and by the end of the day there has been a complete 180 degrees and you end up doing something different. It’s forever evolving, which is great.

What keeps you focused?

The passion and desire to succeed and learn, both personally and as an organisation. I truly believe you learn something new every day.

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

The ability to adapt, no business or person should stand still. To be successful you should always be looking to do things better or differently. You can learn so much from having this mindset.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

I try to be optimistic but it doesn’t always happen.

What did you want to be as a child?

I am somewhat ashamed to say I always wanted to be an accountant. I used to spend hours adding up the cashbook for my Mum and Dad’s business.

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

Like the last two years there is still the uncertainty of Brexit and what will happen with the housing market and interest rates.

Who or what makes you laugh?

My family. There is nothing better than getting home after work and having that precious hour or so of family time. My husband is the one who can always give me a real belly laugh.

Do you dread Monday mornings?

If you dread Monday mornings you are in the wrong job! I love what I do and who I work with. For me, it’s about getting the right mix of the two things.

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

I am a bit of a perfectionist. With this I can sometimes become very controlling and competitive. This, at times, is great in work but I wish I could turn it down a little when it comes to my personal life.

With whom would you most like to have dinner?

Both of my Nan’s, they were both very strong women and had a huge impact on my upbringing. I would love to have dinner with them one last time, just to check in and give them an update on life.

They are both the sort of person I aspire to be.