Shekarrizi brings more than a decade of experience in specialist property finance to Pluto Finance.

He has held senior roles across the lending market, including positions at Octopus Property, Oblix Capital and most recently Lendhub.

Shekarrizi, who will be responsible for bridging loans, will work closely with clients and intermediaries to help contribute to the firm’s wider growth strategy.

His appointment follows the recent appointments of lending directors Hugo Trower and Carl Bowcher.

Commenting on his appointment Shekarrizi says: “Pluto has built a strong reputation in the market for its pragmatic and flexible approach to development and bridge lending.”

“I am delighted to join the team and look forward to working with borrowers and intermediaries and bringing Pluto’s cost effective and flexible bridge lending to a wider audience.”

Pluto Finance co-founder and chief executive Justin Faiz adds: “We are very pleased to welcome Darius to Pluto Finance. He brings a wealth of experience in bridge lending, an excellent network across the market and a strong track record of originating and structuring transactions.”