CrowdProperty, the UK property development finance platform, has announced a significant leadership transition as co-founder and CEO Mike Bristow steps down, making way for Steve Deutsch to take the helm. Bristow, who has been with the company since its inception and has served as CEO since 2018, will be taking what is described as "a well-deserved sabbatical" following his tenure.
During his time at CrowdProperty, Bristow played a pivotal role in driving the platform's growth and enhancing its reputation within the property finance sector. Under his leadership, the Birmingham-based firm secured a valuable £3 million investment from Canada-based Flow Capital Corp. and featured prominently on the FT1000 list of Europe’s fastest-growing companies from 2022 to 2024, alongside the prestigious Sunday Times 100 Tech Rankings.
Bringing over 17 years of senior-level experience to the table, Deutsch has served on the boards of various financial institutions since 2006, holding CEO positions at both GB Bank and Wesleyan Bank. His expertise is expected to guide CrowdProperty through its next phase of growth following the instrumental impact of Bristow.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Steve Deutsch as our new chief executive and look forward to a year of positive transformation,” said John Mould, chairman at CrowdProperty. He added, “Steve’s leadership experience and track record in driving growth and operational excellence will be pivotal to enhancing our position in the market.”
Deutsch expressed his enthusiasm about joining CrowdProperty, asserting, “I’m excited to join CrowdProperty at such a pivotal time in itsjourney. The company’s talented team, industry expertise, and innovative technology provide the perfect platform to drive growth and deliver even greater value to our community of developers, brokers, and investors.”
Since its foundation in 2008, CrowdProperty has made substantial strides in providing financing solutions for small and medium-sized property developers. To date, the platform has lent out approximately £432 million, contributing to the development of 3,811 homes. The company reported significant financial growth recently, posting its most profitable year to date with operating profits reaching £1.184 million for the year ending March 31, 2023, compared to £377,000 the previous year.
This leadership change marks not only the end of Bristow’s impactful tenure but also the beginning of what is anticipated to be an exciting era for CrowdProperty. The continuity of strategic vision is expected under Deutsch’s guidance, as the company aims to leverage its innovative technology and established market presence for sustained growth.
The team at CrowdProperty remains focused on connecting developers and intermediaries to maximize success through efficient funding solutions. With Deutsch at the forefront, stakeholders are optimistic about CrowdProperty's future potential and continuing evolution within the competitive property development finance market.
Experts are optimistic about the strategic priorities Deutsch plans to implement. His history of fostering growth and operational excellence is seen as integral to reinforcing CrowdProperty's position as a leader within the sector.
Overall, as the industrywatch the transition closely, there is much anticipation surrounding how this key appointment will shape CrowdProperty’s guiding vision and operational strategies moving forward.