The Bridging & Development Lenders Association has appointed Jonathan Newman, senior partner at Brightstone Law, as legal adviser to the board.
Newman will advise the board on legal matters, attend meetings and provide counsel as the association continues to support the growth, sustainability and responsibility of the bridging and development lending sector.
He has previously served terms as an elected member of the BDLA board and has long been active in the specialist property finance market.
The BDLA said the appointment would strengthen its support framework as it continues to represent members, promote high standards and support the sector’s development.
The association now has more than 100 lender and associate members. Newman will work alongside the current executive board, including Alan Margolis of Greymax Capital, Chris Taylor of Westcor International, Claire Newman of Masthaven Finance, Ray Cohen of Jackson Cohen, Roz Cawood of StreamBank, Sam Howard of Magnet Capital, and Tanya Elmaz from Together, as well as chief executive Adam Tyler and non-executive chair Vic Jannels.
Tyler says: “[Newman] is highly respected across the specialist finance market and brings with him a wealth of experience, sound judgement and a deep understanding of the legal and commercial issues affecting our sector.
“As the BDLA continues to grow its role in representing members and supporting the wider market, it is important that the Board has access to strong legal counsel. Jonathan’s guidance will be invaluable as we continue to champion a sector that is sustainable, responsible and built on high professional standards.”
Newman adds: “This is a sector that continues to grow, but it is also one facing increasingly complex legal and commercial challenges, from regulatory scrutiny to the rising sophistication of fraudulent activity.
“The role of the BDLA in supporting professionalism, responsibility and good governance across the market has never been more important. I look forward to working with the Board to help support the association’s work and the continued sustainable development of the sector.”
