Love Finance hires former Monzo credit risk director

Love Finance, SME lender and broker, has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of former Monzo Head of Credit Risk, Selen Cagirgan, as its new Head of Credit and Risk.

Cagirgan will lead underwriting, credit and risk strategy across Love Finance’s lending division as the business accelerates its scale-up plans. Her remit includes developing the firm’s credit strategy, enhancing risk controls, and building scalable governance frameworks to support sustainable growth. She will also play a key role in advancing data-driven lending models and designing new product risk systems, reporting directly to Chief Commercial Officer Alex O’Malley.

Bringing more than 15 years of experience across major fintech and financial institutions, Cagirgan previously held senior roles at Monzo Bank, where she built its credit risk framework, and more recently led the launch and rapid expansion of the lending arm at LemFi in just seven months. Her experience in combining data analytics with operational lending expertise is expected to support Love Finance’s innovation-led approach to SME funding.

Speaking about her appointment, Cagirgan said: “Love Finance is changing how small businesses access funding, making it faster, fairer, and more accessible. I’m excited to join a team that’s pushing boundaries in business lending, and to use my experience to help more SMEs get the support they need to grow.”

Alex O’Malley added: “As we enter this crucial stage of growth, Selen’s hire strengthens our lending capabilities.

“Her experience and strategic approach align perfectly with where we’re headed as a business. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the Love Finance team.”

Love Finance also confirmed that Tina While-Cooper has been appointed Head of HR, Policy & Operations, joining the company on the same date as part of its wider organisational expansion.