Paragon Bank appoints new managing director to lead bridging finance

Paragon Bank has appointed Colin Sanders as managing director to lead its new bridging finance proposition.

Colin joins Solihull-based Paragon with more than three decades of experience in specialist lending. He previously led bridging lender Omni Capital as CEO before founding Tuscan Capital, which he later sold to Allica Bank.

He will be joined by Sundeep Patel as commercial director.

Sundeep has more than 20 years’ experience working with intermediary partners across specialist markets, including senior roles at Together, Precise Mortgages and United Trust Bank.

Further appointments will follow as Colin builds out the bridging team, including a head of Credit.

Colin and Sundeep will pilot the new proposition with a select group of intermediaries during the final quarter of 2026, ahead of a full launch in 2027.

The proposition will provide fast, dependable funding for experienced property professionals, including developers, surveyors, architects, planning consultants and builders.

The launch comes as bridging finance continues to move further into the mainstream and demand grows for specialist funding solutions.

Colin Sanders said: “Bridging finance has become an essential tool for property professionals, whether they are acquiring assets, funding refurbishment projects or looking to move quickly to secure opportunities.

“The market has grown significantly in recent years but remains fragmented, and that has sharpened demand for lenders who are credible and dependable.

“Our proposition will be built around what brokers and customers consistently tell us they need – straightforward communication, quick decisions, experienced people and reliable execution.

“With the backing of a FTSE 250-listed bank and all the experience and credentials that come with that, we have an opportunity to build a bridging finance business that is agile and committed for the long term.”

He added: “Paragon is a highly respected bank and a recognised pioneer in specialist lending, with a strong reputation for supporting customers and intermediaries alike.

“The business has identified a clear opportunity for an established and trusted brand to further support the evolving needs of customers and brokers within the bridging sector.”

The launch forms part of Paragon’s wider diversification strategy, creating new opportunities for existing intermediary partners who already place buy-to-let or development finance business with the Group.

Pictured: Colin Sanders and Sundeep Patel