In her new role, she will primarily focus on working with the Blackfinch Property team, while also providing legal support and counsel across the group.

Throughout her career, Catherine has gained significant experience in both private practice (real estate and project finance) and in-house legal, specialising in finance and commercial general counsel.

She joins the firm from ALD Automotive, where she previously worked as a senior legal counsel.

Catherine’s appointment brings the capacity of the company’s legal team – which provides legal services to the whole group – to seven.

It follows the recent hires of Jemma Regan-Cummins as legal counsel from YTL Group and Laith Bader, who joined Blackfinch as a paralegal from Walker Morris.

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Commenting on her new role, Catherine said: “The dynamic, fast-paced and entrepreneurial culture at Blackfinch was a massive attraction. 

“I’m excited to be joining during such a period of exceptional growth and with the opportunity of developing Blackfinch Property’s finance offering. 

“I hope my combination of in-house financial services experience and property and project financing from private practice will be a welcome addition.”

Hamish Masson, head of legal at Blackfinch, added: “Catherine is a highly experienced senior legal counsel with a great track record gained in the financial services industry. 

“She brings considerable expertise in banking, real estate finance, corporate governance and general commercial law. 

“We believe this makes Catherine a great fit for Blackfinch, and her appointment demonstrates how we are matching our growth ambitions with exceptional people.”

David Higson, investment director at Blackfinch Property, stated: “Our in-house legal team has earned plaudits with commercial property developers, and helped establish Blackfinch Property’s reputation as a lender that stands out, by going that extra mile to ensure deals reach completion. 

“With this in mind, we’re looking forward to working closely with Catherine on a range of exciting projects here at Blackfinch Property.”