Liberty Financial

Office address: Level 2/110 Customs Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
Website: www.libfin.co.nz
Year established: 2001
Company type: financial services
Employees: 40+
Expertise: first home loan, investment property, refinancing, consolidating debt, term deposits, investment, loan repayment calculator, extra repayment calculator, borrowing power, introducers
Parent company: Liberty Group
Key people: Aaron Skilton (CEO), Anne Bastian (CPO), Sherman Ma (director), Vanessa Bani (GM, risk and compliance), Leonard Ward (independent chairman), David Osborne (independent director)
Financing status: N/A

Liberty Financial is a non-bank lender headquartered in Auckland, specialising in innovative finance solutions for diverse circumstances. With over 40 staff in the country, they offer home loans, property investments, and savings options. Financial inclusion drives the company’s operations, having provided over $2 billion in home loans, promoting financial freedom for all.

History of Liberty Financial

Liberty Financial started operations in New Zealand in 2001, focusing on residential mortgage lending. Recognising gaps in the market, they pioneered specialty finance, catering to underserved borrowers. Liberty is part of the Liberty Financial Group, which operates in both New Zealand and Australia.

Over the years, Liberty has navigated various economic cycles, consistently supporting customers through financial challenges. They were named one of NZ Adviser's Top Mortgage Employers for 2023, showcasing a positive workplace culture. Liberty's commitment to customer support and innovative solutions has proven their industry leadership.

Products and Services of Liberty Financial

The company offers a wide range of products designed to meet various financial needs. Key offerings include:

• first home loan: customised solutions for first-time homebuyers
• investment property loans: financing options designed for property investors
• refinancing: solutions to restructure existing loans for better terms
• consolidating debt: combining multiple debts into a single manageable payment
• term deposits: investment options with fixed interest rates for guaranteed returns
• investment: opportunities for investing with potential for growth
• loan repayment calculator: tool to estimate monthly loan repayment amounts
• extra repayment calculator: tool to calculate savings from making extra loan repayments

At Liberty, the goal is to help more people achieve financial freedom through a range of flexible and innovative home loans. Stating that they ‘think differently’, the firm ensures that self-employment, complex situations, or past financial missteps are not obstacles.

Culture at Liberty Financial

The company is committed to rewarding their employees with a comprehensive range of workplace benefits that support both personal and professional needs. They value the hard work and valuable contributions of their staff, ensuring their well-being and development are prioritised. The company offers various employee benefits, including:

• health and family support: paid parental leave, support for gender affirmation, fertility assistance, flu vaccinations, and health check-ups
• professional development: opportunities for career growth and educational advancement
• financial assistance: salary sacrifice options, insurance discounts, wellbeing subsidies, and novated leasing
• work environment: inclusive workplace culture, comprehensive onboarding, employee referral programs, catered meals, and regular massages

Liberty Financial believes their people are their greatest asset, offering numerous initiatives to celebrate diversity and support inclusion within their community. They are proud to promote a wide range of programs that foster an inclusive environment. The company’s diversity and inclusion efforts include:

• cultural diversity: hosting World Expo events and celebrating Māori Language Week to raise awareness of cultural heritage and traditions
• Women at Liberty: providing initiatives for guidance, support, training, and resources, with 52% of staff and leaders being women, and 30% of senior management roles held by women
• Liberty Pride Network: maintaining a safe environment for LGBTQIA+ team members through workshops, celebrations, and advocacy efforts
• guest speakers: regularly inviting speakers from various backgrounds to share their experiences and foster an inclusive community

The company believes good leadership shapes a positive culture and improves customer outcomes. Their flexible, client-first approach ensures stability and success, providing options for all customers.

About Liberty Financial CEO Aaron Skilton and Key People

Aaron Skilton, appointed CEO in April 2022, oversees Liberty Financial New Zealand and Mike Pero Group. His previous roles include CEO positions at NZHL, and Greenstone, and an associate director role at Marsh. He is a graduate of Massey University.

The key people supporting the directors in operating the company include:

• Anne Bastian, serving as chief people officer, overseeing human resources and employee welfare initiatives
• Sherman Ma, a director at the company, contributing to strategic planning and corporate governance
• Vanessa Bani, acting as group manager, risk and compliance, ensuring regulatory adherence and managing risk
• Leonard Ward, as the Financial Group’s independent chairman, providing leadership and oversight to the board
• David Osborne, serving as an independent director of the board, offering expert guidance and strategic advice

The Future at Liberty Financial

Liberty Financial was recognised as an NZA 2024 excellence awardee, highlighting their industry expertise. The company served as the event partner for the NZ Mortgage Awards 2024, showing its appreciation for outstanding performances in New Zealand's mortgage business. Their involvement in industry events shows their commitment to seizing future opportunities and staying actively engaged in the market.

Recently, the company secured an upgraded credit rating from S&P Global, matching some established banks. This investment-grade rating enhances investor confidence and highlights Liberty’s financial strength. The higher credit rating signifies their ongoing success and positions them for future growth, ensuring continued innovation and customer support.