At a Glance
- Tasks: Build relationships and identify flexible funding solutions for UK businesses.
- Company: Upshift Finance, a dynamic SME lender founded by ex-J.P. Morgan and Morgan Stanley bankers.
- Benefits: Uncapped bonuses, equity options, and hybrid working flexibility.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with direct access to decision-makers and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of SME lending and make a real impact in a growing market.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in SME lending or corporate banking with strong relationship skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Upshift Finance is a new specialist SME lender providing flexible, structured capital to proven UK businesses founded by former J.P. Morgan and Morgan Stanley investment bankers. We provide flexible junior capital — primarily unsecured revolving credit facilities and term loans from £100k to £2m+, with tenors of 1–24 months — to established UK businesses that have reached their senior lender’s leverage ceiling but remain fundamentally creditworthy. Backed by committed capital, we work alongside existing lenders to deliver additional funding where timing, structure, or complexity fall outside traditional bank appetite. Our edge is institutional-grade underwriting applied at fintech speed: thorough credit work, clean documentation, and decisions in days rather than weeks.
We are seeking a relationship-led originator to build our introducer franchise and shape the commercial function from the ground up.
The Opportunity
This is not a volume sales role. The focus is on identifying, structuring, and progressing “good but imperfect” opportunities — businesses that are fundamentally sound but require a more flexible approach than traditional lenders can offer. You will play a key role in building Upshift’s presence with:
- Commercial finance brokers
- Accountancy firms
Key Responsibilities
- Originate and develop new lending opportunities through introducer networks
- Build and manage relationships with corporate finance advisers, brokers, and accountants
- Identify situations where traditional funding falls short and position Upshift as a solution
- Work closely with credit to structure pragmatic funding solutions
- Manage deals from initial discussion through to completion
- Contribute to the ongoing development of Upshift’s market positioning and proposition
- Feed market intelligence back into product, pricing, and positioning decisions
Ideal Candidate Profile
- 5+ years’ experience in SME lending, structured finance, or corporate banking - challenger bank, debt fund, or specialty lender background preferred
- Relationship-led origination or partnerships background
- Live, warm relationships with NACFB brokers, corporate finance advisers, or accountancy CF teams
- Pipeline of near-bankable opportunities
- Comfortable with complex or non-standard situations
- Strong understanding of capital structures and deal dynamics
- Pragmatic, solution-led mindset
What Success Looks Like
- Building a high-quality network of active introducers
- Generating a consistent pipeline of relevant opportunities
- Progressing deals efficiently through to completion
- Establishing Upshift as a trusted funding partner
Why Upshift
- Founded by ex-JP Morgan and Morgan Stanley investment bankers — institutional underwriting credibility is part of how you sell the product
- Backed by committed capital with the ability to move quickly
- Flexible mandate focused on real-world deal execution
- Collaborative environment with direct access to decision-makers
- Opportunity to shape and build a growing platform
- A genuine product gap in the UK SME market, not a me-too play
Compensation
- Uncapped performance-based bonus
- Meaningful equity participation option
- Hybrid working from central London, with reasonable flexibility for client meetings and introducer travel
Business Development Manager in London employer: Upshift Finance
Upshift Finance is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment, where employees can thrive in their roles while shaping the future of SME lending. With a focus on relationship-led origination and a commitment to flexible, pragmatic solutions, team members enjoy meaningful growth opportunities and the chance to make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving market. Located in central London, Upshift provides a unique blend of institutional-grade credibility and fintech agility, making it an attractive place for professionals seeking rewarding careers in finance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager in London
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Upshift Finance. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Upshift Finance.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Upshift Finance's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Upshift Finance
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Upshift Finance.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Upshift Finance will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Upshift Finance employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
