Catalyst Property Finance founder and CEO Chris Fairfax is stepping down from day-to-day leadership following the lender’s integration into Foundation Group.
Fairfax (main picture, inset) launched Catalyst in 2017 and has since helped establish the business as a specialist property finance lender focused on broker service and flexible lending solutions.
During the past 12 months, he has overseen Catalyst’s acquisition and integration into Foundation Group, creating a platform for the lender’s next stage of growth.
He will remain actively involved with Catalyst, supporting business development initiatives and providing strategic input. The arrangement is intended to provide continuity for brokers, borrowers and employees.
LEADERSHIP TRANSFERS TO EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Leadership responsibility transfers to Foundation Group’s executive committee, which will work alongside Catalyst’s existing senior leadership team.
Catalyst says the transition will not affect its proposition, lending appetite, service standards or commitment to intermediaries and customers.
Pete Ball, CEO of Foundation Group, says: “On behalf of everyone across the Group, I would like to thank Chris for his vision, leadership and commitment in building Catalyst into the highly respected lender it is today.
“Creating a successful specialist lending business from the ground up is a tremendous achievement and one that has earned Chris enormous respect across the market.
“Over the past year, Chris has also played a pivotal role in delivering a successful integration into Foundation Group, ensuring continuity for customers, brokers, funding partners and colleagues alike. We are delighted that he will continue to support the business as it moves into this next phase.
“Catalyst has an exceptionally strong and experienced leadership team, a compelling proposition and significant opportunities ahead. Combined with the support of Foundation Group, this gives us great confidence in the future. We look forward to continuing Catalyst’s growth trajectory and further strengthening its position in the specialist property finance market.”
FAIRFAX REMAINS INVOLVED
Fairfax says: “Leading Catalyst has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. From launching the business in 2017 to seeing it become part of Foundation Group, it has been an incredible journey.
“Following a successful acquisition and integration, I believe this is the right time to transition leadership responsibilities and allow the next phase of growth to unfold.
“I know Catalyst is in excellent hands.”
“I am enormously proud of what we have achieved and grateful to our colleagues, customers, brokers and funding partners for the trust and support they have shown us over the years.
“Most importantly, I know Catalyst is in excellent hands. We have built an outstanding business with an experienced leadership team, a strong culture and a clear strategy for growth.
“With the backing of Foundation Group and the strength of the team already in place, I am extremely excited about Catalyst’s future and look forward to continuing to support the business as it develops and succeeds in the years ahead.”
