The private lender’s new head of commercial and specialist lending will oversee product development and broker relationships.
Solomons Capital has named industry veteran Darren Stratford as its new head of commercial and specialist lending, overseeing strategic growth, product development, and broker relationships across the company’s lending portfolio.
The new hire brings over 35 years of experience in sales, risk, and product management across banks and non-bank lenders.
Most recently, he served as senior product manager at lender RedZed, where he helped develop its self-managed super fund (SMSF) and private credit products.
Prior to that, Stratford spent more than three years at Resimac and held roles at Bluestone, Bank of Queensland, and Suncorp Group, along with nearly a decade as a mortgage broker and business owner.
Commenting on his decision to join Solomons, Stratford said the firm’s breadth of expertise was a major draw.
“This allows us to manage clients comprehensively across these pillars. Importantly, the business empowers its people to find solutions, overcome challenges and embrace innovation to help customers,” Stratford said.
Steven Galdona, director of credit and operations at Solomons Capital, welcomed Stratford’s appointment.
“Darren’s depth of experience across product, sales and broker relationships positions us strongly as we scale our lending operations,” Galdona said.
“His ability to translate complex credit scenarios into practical solutions will be invaluable to our broker partners and their clients.”
The company said Stratford’s background in digital transformation and operational efficiency will improve Solomons Capital’s service delivery as the company aims to expand its presence in the private lending market.
Stratford’s appointment comes just months after the lender welcomed another senior appointment to the group, in the form of Lili Barron (née Amphone), who was recently appointed as Solomons Capital’s national business development manager.
Barron is now leading national broker engagement and distribution, supporting brokers across Australia and helping the lender expand its reach.
She has been tasked with focusing on providing guidance through complex lending scenarios, offering practical solutions, and ensuring smooth transaction outcomes for clients.
[Related: Solomons Capital welcomes national BDM]
