Catalyst Property Finance has expanded its team with three new hires as it looks to scale operations amid rising demand across the specialist lending market.
The lender has made appointments across its finance, underwriting and marketing functions, signalling a continued investment in infrastructure as it positions for further growth in 2026.
Duncan Ovens joins as head of financial reporting, bringing additional oversight to the firm’s financial operations while Jack Gulyas has been appointed as a junior underwriter to support deal flow and processing capacity. Ben Timms joins as a marketing assistant, strengthening the lender’s brand and communications capability.
The latest hires form part of Catalyst’s broader strategy to build out a multi-disciplinary team capable of supporting increased lending volumes and maintaining service levels as the specialist finance sector continues to expand.
The move reflects ongoing momentum in the specialist lending space, where brokers are increasingly turning to alternative finance solutions to navigate affordability pressures, higher interest rates and more complex borrower circumstances.
Catalyst says that the appointments will enhance its ability to respond to market demand while continuing to support intermediaries with a wider range of funding solutions.
BUILDING MOMENTUM
Duncan Ovens (main picture, right) says: “Having recently served as a Finance Manager at MSP Capital, I’m delighted to join Catalyst at such a pivotal point in its evolution.
“There is tangible momentum as the business enters its next growth phase, providing an excellent opportunity to apply my experience to the journey ahead.
I look forward to working with the team to strengthen our reporting capabilities and build upon the success already achieved.”
Becky Harris, COO/CFO at Catalyst Property Finance, adds: “Duncan brings comprehensive experience in reporting, analytics, and audit within the bridging and development sector, which will be a great asset to the team.”
DYNAMIC BUSINESS
Jack Gulyas (main picture, middle), junior underwriter, says: “With nine years’ experience in financial services, my career spans compliance in Jersey and six years in UK residential and commercial finance, including three years specialising in bridging at Complete FS. I have also recently completed my CeMAP qualification.
“It’s an exciting time to join Catalyst. I look forward to applying my experience within such a dynamic, growing business and further developing my career alongside the talented team here. There is a fantastic opportunity to build on my existing knowledge as the company continues its upward trajectory.
Aaron Deo, underwriting manager at Catalyst Property Finance, adds: “I am really pleased to welcome Jack to the team as a Junior Underwriter.
“He brings strong experience in bridging and commercial lending and has already demonstrated a great eagerness to learn the Catalyst way.
“Jack will assist the team in a number of ways, with his initial focus on progressing loan completions within the pipeline.”
DIGITAL BACKGROUND
Ben Timms (main picture, left), marketing assistant, says: “Since graduating from Bournemouth University in Business and Management, I’ve gained marketing and administrative experience within the NHS and care sectors, focusing on digital content and SEO.
“Catalyst’s values align closely with my own, and I am excited to join the team during such a strong period of growth. I look forward to being part of the journey and developing my skills in a dynamic, forward-thinking environment.”
Kate Haas, marketing director of Catalyst Property Finance, adds: “Growth at Catalyst isn’t just about numbers; it’s about how we communicate our value to the broker community.
“Ben’s background in digital content and SEO comes at a perfect time as we expand our multi-channel marketing efforts. His role will be instrumental in helping us deliver more targeted, insightful communications and events, ensuring our intermediary partners stay informed and supported in an evolving market.”
Main picture: (Left to right) Catalyst Property Finance new hires Ben Timms, Jack Gulyas and Duncan Ovens.
