About Momenta Finance

Luke Jooste

CEO

Luke Jooste is a highly experienced banking and financial services professional with an impressive 27-year track record. He has excelled in executive leadership, sales, and credit risk management roles. Luke began his career at Standard Bank in South Africa before joining FirstRand Bank, where he played a pivotal role in acquiring major mortgage portfolios. In 2008, he moved to the UK and joined Barclays Bank as a credit sanctioner, later becoming the Head of Property Finance and ultimately the Commercial Director for Barclays Business Bank.

In 2015, Luke embarked on a new venture, joining Funding Circle during its disruptive start-up phase in the UK alternative finance industry. He held various leadership positions and played a crucial role in the company’s rapid growth. Afterwards, Luke spent a year at BAWAG PSK Investment Bank, focusing on complex real estate transactions. In 2019, he assumed the role of CEO at Merchant Money, leveraging his extensive experience in banking and alternative finance.

In his spare time, Luke dedicates himself to his two young children, and he enjoys spectating various sports while keeping fit through running marathons, including London, New York, and Paris, with plans to participate in the Berlin and Edinburgh marathons in the next five years.

Jonathan Stern

CFO

With over 15 years of experience in the financial services sector, Jonathan Stern possesses a diverse skill set acquired through various roles, including advisory, forensic investigations, and distressed turnarounds. More recently, he has focused on the specialty finance lending space with Merchant Money, where his significant contributions have been vital to the company’s growth since its inception.

Jonathan holds esteemed qualifications as a Chartered Accountant and a Master’s in Business Administration, further enhancing his expertise in the field. Beyond his professional pursuits, he is an enthusiastic sports fan, particularly passionate about football. Whether testing his golfing abilities on the course or enjoying a run in the scenic parks of London, he maintains an active lifestyle. Additionally, Jonathan refines his scuba diving skills as a rescue diver during coastal adventures.

However, his greatest joys lie in his family, with his wife and their son.

Danny Girnun

Managing Director

Danny Girnun brings over 15 years of expertise in the alternative finance and fintech sectors, having co-founded two start-up businesses in the SME and consumer lending space within the United Kingdom. He initially gained valuable experience working across various portfolio companies under the Transaction Capital group, a listed entity on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange in South Africa. In 2012, Danny moved to the United Kingdom to establish Money in Advance, an online automated provider of consumer loans. Collaborating with a management team and high-net-worth investors, Danny played a pivotal role in driving growth and customer acquisition.

In 2013, Danny joined forces with Jonathan Stern to co-found Merchant Money, a thriving SME funding provider in the UK. Together, they guided the company through substantial growth, product diversification, and profitability. In 2019, they appointed Luke Jooste, formerly of Barclays Bank and Funding Circle, as the CEO. Currently, Danny serves as the Managing Director and is an integral part of the executive committee.

Outside of work, Danny dedicates his spare time to his young family, enjoying sports, and indulging his passion for music as a skilled drummer.

Amanda Hardy

Head of Capital Markets

Amanda Hardy, with over 13 years of financial services experience, specialises in capital allocation and investment management. After becoming a chartered accountant in 2010, she embarked on a career that included working in M&A transaction services at Deloitte London. In this role, Amanda provided financial due diligence to corporate and private equity clients involved in buy-side or sell-side transactions. She later transitioned to portfolio management for ultra-high-net-worth families at Stonehage Fleming, a renowned international family office. There, she skillfully handled advisory and discretionary multi-asset portfolios, collaborating closely with the investment research team and chief investment officer.

In 2019, Amanda joined Merchant Money, and in 2020, she successfully spearheaded the implementation and execution of the company’s inaugural partnership with the British Business Bank. Her exceptional performance led to her current position as the head of capital markets, where she sits on the management committee.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Amanda finds enjoyment in running during her spare time.

Tom Shave

Sales Director

Tom Shave is an accomplished sales professional with a strong focus on achieving results. With over 17 years of experience in the financial services sector, he has excelled in roles related to new business development and client relationship management. Throughout his career, Tom has worked in various capacities at investment banks, stock exchanges, and start-up organisations prior to their initial public offerings (IPOs).

Known for his extensive network within the commercial finance industry, Tom leverages his market knowledge, sales strategies, and presentation skills to support introducers in finding suitable funding options for their clients. He places great importance on building and nurturing relationships based on trust with all introducers, as he believes it is crucial to their success.

Outside of work, Tom indulges in his passion for clay pigeon shooting. He actively participates in competitions to continually refine his skills and test his abilities.

Jake Furman

Credit

Bringing with him a distinguished career spanning 10 years in the financial services industry. His expertise lies primarily in credit underwriting, with 8 years dedicated to this field. Jake played a pivotal role in leading the development of new products at Momenta Finance. Focusing on the design and implementation of the company’s credit decision engine.

Before joining Momenta Finance, Jake served as a credit securities analyst at Banyan Global Investment Advisors LLC in Florida, where he specialised in fixed income. Jake’s academic background is equally impressive. He holds a first-class Honours BSc in Economics from Nottingham University, providing him with a solid foundation in economic principles and analytical thinking. To further enhance his skills, he pursued an MBA with a specialisation in financial valuation and investment management from Lynn University in Florida.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jake finds joy on the sports field. He actively participates in semi-professional football, tennis and padel.

Philip White

Consultant

Philip White is a seasoned executive leader with an impressive track record of over 30 years in the field of commercial lending to UK SMEs. Throughout his extensive career, he has amassed a wealth of expertise in both highly regulated bank and non-bank lending environments. Philip’s profound understanding of the intricacies and nuances of these sectors enables him to navigate complex regulatory landscapes while delivering optimal solutions for his clients.

Notably, Philip possesses valuable operational experience in high-growth, scale-up, and private equity settings. He has successfully led teams and organisations through periods of rapid expansion, ensuring efficient and effective operations while maintaining a strong focus on strategic objectives.

As an external consultant, Philip brings his wealth of experience and expertise to provide valuable guidance and support to Momenta Finance.