SDKA strengthens team with key promotions across underwriting and operations

SDKA has announced three promotions with Alex Swan (pictured above, right) taking the role as head of underwriting.

Alex joined the business in May 2023 as an underwriter and has progressed to a senior leadership position, where he will now oversee the underwriting function and play a key role in the future direction of the business.

Within the team Chris Simpson, who has been with the lender as an underwriter since March 2025, has been promoted to the vacated position of senior underwriter.

Josh Draper, who joined the business as a graduate underwriter in December 2024, is now an underwriter.

Sharon Penter, whose role has expanded since joining the business as administrator in September 2024, has taken the title of operations manager.

The promotions follow the lender recording stable pre-tax profits of around £3.3m, with loans averaging £258,000 per transaction.

Kunal Mehta, managing director at SDKA (pictured above, left), said: “As always we look ahead and plan for growth, and to be in the best possible position to meet our targets we need the best people and a widening remit of competitive short-term finance products.

“Alex, Chris, Josh and Sharon have played a pivotal role in our growth over the last few years, and their progression reflects the strength of our team.

“Their experience and expertise will be invaluable as SDKA continues to grow and evolve.”