After realising her passion for the industry as she progressed in her career, she took the opportunity to move into the development finance industry, despite having no other experience.

Initially starting her first role as a case manager, Bonnie then challenged herself to move and seek a new role as a portfolio manager at Paragon to give herself the chance to learn more about the industry.

Eight years on from starting her initial job in property, she now runs a portfolio of 37 loans totalling £200m.

Ashling got into the industry after studying for a law degree at Edinburgh Napier University, once finishing she felt law wasn’t the right job for her and started to look for new roles.

After a friend recommended finance, Ashling found a role with Allied Irish Bank GB and moved to London three weeks later.

Holding various positions during her four years there, Ashling was working in credit operations when she moved to Paragon Bank’s development finance team in a similar role, with no prior experience in development finance.

However, after showing an interest in portfolio management, with the support of the Paragon team, Ashling now works as a senior portfolio manager.

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Ashling loves to see a building that needs some work or the site of a development before it’s started and helping to turn it into an exciting new development. 

For any women looking to get into the development finance Industry, Bonnie and Ashling have shared some of what they’ve learnt and some words of advice.

“Don’t be put off if you don’t have the right experience! With a good attitude, training, and the right mentors around you, you’ll be able to achieve your goals.

“Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, don’t look back and regret not taking the chance to do something new.

“Seek guidance from your peers and in turn provide it to others when you can.

“For any young professionals, attend any seminars, webinars, and trainings that you can. This will help you to grow your network and meet other people who may have been in a similar position to you in their careers.

“The industry has changed, and more women are in senior leadership roles, which is a great motivation for the younger generation.

“Join an association or membership that supports women in the industry. We have joined the Women in Property Association, where we network with other empowering women in the industry as well as attending some fantastic CPD-accredited discussions,” said Bonnie and Ashling. 

Pictured above L-R: Bonnie McCloskey, portfolio manager at Paragon Bank, Ashling Quinn, senior portfolio manager at Paragon Bank