Meet Mike, Relationship Director at Secure Trust Bank Real Estate Finance:
1. How long have you worked at Secure Trust Bank Real Estate Finance?
I have been at Secure Trust Bank for around two and a half years now, having joined the Origination team back in March 2022.
2. What is your career path up to now?
I actually graduated with a law degree from the University of Exeter. At the time, however, the employment landscape was tough and law firms were only taking on trainees with previous experience, which I didn't have.
During my time at university, I was a foreman for a marquee company down in Cornwall. I ended up spending 18 months post-graduation working on marquees during the summer months and at a call centre over the winter, all while trying to get my first break in the law sector.
I may not have been successful, but I eventually joined Handelsbanken in 2012, which was the start of my journey in banking. Handelsbanken gave me a fantastic grounding in the industry and shaped the 'old school' type of banker that I see myself as today. I enjoyed stints in various branches of the business, particularly credit, to gain as much experience as possible.
After 10 years at Handelsbanken, I decided it was time for a new challenge, joining Secure Trust Bank in 2022. The prospect of being involved in large real estate finance deals was what really attracted me to the business - I haven't looked back since!
3. What are the main responsibilities of your role?
My main responsibility is originating loans across both investment and development. I spend a lot of my time liaising with property finance brokers, helping to shape deals, and identifying and mitigating risks before presenting them to the credit team. Working for a relationship-led bank, it's crucial that I maintain trust with the clients I onboard. I also have the privilege of covering Secure Trust Bank Real Estate Finance's marketing activities too!
4. What are you most proud of, both in and outside of work?
Outside of work it is, without a doubt, becoming a first-time dad to my 14-month-old daughter. Inside of work, delivering a £35m transaction within just six weeks during the run up to Christmas last year has got to be up there.
5. What is one piece of advice you're glad you took?
When I obtained my first lending role at Handelsbanken, the business's UK CEO told me to always trust my gut. If the deal didn't feel right, then I should walk away. This advice has served me well throughout my career.
6. What do you enjoy most about leading our annual REF Ramble fundraiser?
While raising money for worthwhile causes is what it's all about, the whole day itself is extremely good fun and I always relish a challenge. So many of our professional partners join us, and it's great to have that time away from the desk to chat and catch up about non-work-related things, strengthening relationships all while taking in the great scenery along the Thames Path. The first cider afterwards is particularly enjoyable too...
7. Coffee or tea in the morning?
I'm strange - neither! I spent my early years on building sites, making tea and sweeping up. I think this was enough to put me off for life!