South west business lender FOLK2FOLK is gearing up for its next phase of growth, with the appointment of a new CEO.
Managing director Roy Warren is set to retire from the business and join its board as an independent, non-executive director from January 2026, as part of a 'planned leadership transition'.
Roy, who has led the company since 2019, will be succeeded by new chief executive officer Kawai Chung, who brings more than 20 years of experience in financial services and asset-backed investing.
The Cornwall-based firm, which has offices throughout the south west, including one in Cheltenham, supports rural and regional businesses which are often overlooked by traditional lenders, while offering investors monthly income from property-secured investments.
Having held senior leadership roles at challenger banks, private equity firms and investment managers, Kawai brings expertise spanning capital markets, SME lending and structured finance, with a 'strong track record' in scaling lending businesses and building investor confidence.
The business has enjoyed six consecutive years of profitability under Roy's leadership, evolving from a 'regional challenger into a recognised national alternative to traditional finance', with more than £780 million in property-backed loans deployed to small businesses across the UK.
Chairman, Tim Sawyer, said: 'Roy has steered FOLK2FOLK through a transformative period, delivering consistent profitability and embedding the values that set this business apart.
'We’re grateful for his leadership and pleased we’ll continue to benefit from his insight and experience on the board.
'At the same time, we’re delighted to warmly welcome Kawai as CEO. His depth and breadth of experience in financial services and alignment with our mission make him the right leader to take FOLK2FOLK into its next chapter.'
Kawai commented: 'I’m honoured to be joining FOLK2FOLK at such a pivotal moment.
'The business has carved out a distinctive space in UK finance; and I’m excited to build on that legacy.
'My focus will be on broadening our reach, strengthening our proposition, and continuing to deliver value for both borrowers and investors.'
