First Mortgage Trust expands national presence

BDM appointed in Christchurch

First Mortgage Trust expands national presence

First Mortgage Trust has appointed a new business development manager as it continues to focus on growing its national footprint, including the South Island.

Sam Oughton (pictured above) has joined the First Mortgage Trust Christchurch office, which opened in late 2022.

First Mortgage Trust head of lending Sam Burgess said the company was “delighted” to expand its Christchurch team.

Originally from Christchurch, Oughton has over 10 years’ experience in the finance and real estate sectors, including registered property valuations, Burgess said. He has a proven track record of building strong relationships with key clients and partners.

“He is passionate about delivering exceptional customer service and helping people on their property finance journey,” Burgess said.

Burgess said Oughton’s appointment reflects the desire to expand First Mortgage Trust’s footprint nationally.

“Sam will be a great addition to the team. His skills and experience will be invaluable as we continue to grow in Christchurch and the wider South Island region,” Burgess said.

The appointment of Oughton follows those of head of treasury Gareth Brown and wholesale investment manager Matthew Laing in mid-2022. In late 2020, the non-bank lender reported it had hit a milestone of over $1bn of investor funds under management, cementing its position as “New Zealand’s largest non-bank first mortgage provider”.

Established in 1996, First Mortgage Trust provides property finance and investment solutions to New Zealanders. The non-bank lender confirms it has over $1.5bn in funds under management and more than 6,000 investors nationwide.

First Mortgage Trust is a sponsor of the New Zealand Mortgage Awards, to be held on April 27.