Newman will advise the board on legal matters, attend meetings and give counsel on growth, sustainability and responsibility of the board and the overall sector.

The BDLA now has more than 100 lender and associate members.

BDLA chief executive Adam Tyler said: “I am delighted to welcome Jonathan as legal advisor to the board. He is highly respected across the specialist finance market and brings with him a wealth of experience, sound judgement and a deep understanding of the legal and commercial issues affecting our sector.

“Jonathan’s guidance will be invaluable as we continue to champion a sector that is sustainable, responsible and built on high professional standards.”

Newman said: “I am very pleased to have been appointed legal advisor to the board of the BDLA.

“This is a sector that continues to grow, but it is also one facing increasingly complex legal and commercial challenges, from regulatory scrutiny to the rising sophistication of fraudulent activity.”