George joins Equifinance having been one of the founders of Shawbrook Bank and formerly chief executive of First National Bank, as well as being a founding director of Link Loans and Commercial First Mortgages.

George joins Tony Marshall, managing director and Chris Payne, finance director, on the board.

Marshall said: “We are delighted to attract someone with Philip’s extensive experience in the sector.

“His background and insight will be of particular value to our future progress.

“We believe that Philip will bring the skills, expertise and wisdom to assist the business to realise its growth potential over the coming years.”

George added: “I am delighted to be appointed to the Equifinance board and to have the opportunity to work with Tony and Chris, who have built a really successful secured loan business.

“I am very much looking forward to helping them take the business to the next level and become a major player in the specialist mortgage market.”