Finova has opened a new Manchester office, creating more than 50 roles as it expands its engineering and technology capability.
The hub, located at x+why, 100 Embankment, will support the development of Finova’s lending, broker and servicing platforms, with a focus on advancing its AI-enabled solutions.
The lending and savings technology provider said over half of the roles have already been filled, with further recruitment ongoing. The expansion follows continued growth in demand for Finova’s cloud-based software from UK lenders and brokers.
The London-headquartered company currently supports more than 60 financial institutions, manages nearly £50bn in loans and savings, and powers one in five UK mortgages.
The Manchester hub will also include apprenticeship opportunities aimed at developing new talent within the UK fintech sector.
Gareth Richardson, chief executive officer at Finova, said: “There’s a common assumption that investment in AI leads to fewer jobs. At Finova, we’re seeing the opposite.
“Our AI capabilities are driving real commercial growth, and that growth is what’s enabling us to invest in new talent and technology.
“We’re a UK business, built for UK lenders, brokers, borrowers and savers, and we place great emphasis on investing in the incredible pool of talent right here in the UK.”
He added: “Manchester is a city with a strong technology ecosystem and real ambition. We want to play a role in shaping what an AI-driven financial services company looks like in the UK – one that grows its technology and its people at the same time.”
In a LinkedIn post, the company said the launch marks “an important milestone” nine months into Richardson’s leadership, as it continues to invest in its technology, workforce and long-term growth strategy.
Finova said it is “excited to tap into the incredible tech talent in the region” as it builds “smarter, faster, more customer-focused lending and savings experiences.”
Separately, David Espley, said he was “so excited and proud” to return to Manchester with the business, describing the new base as “an amazing hub with over 50 new roles many of them AI developers and all of them working on exciting projects to improve the lives of our customers.”
He added: “We chose Manchester because of its amazing and very active tech community and a sense that we could be part of a wider community of innovators.
“On a personal note – it feels like a full circle coming back to where I started my career and made some lifelong friends.”
