FOLK2FOLK Appoints Kawai Chung as CEO as Roy Warren Retires

Roy Warren Retires After Six Years of Profitability

FOLK2FOLK, the UK’s largest peer-to-peer business lending platform, has confirmed a major leadership transition. Roy Warren, who has been Managing Director since 2019, retired from his role on 23rd September 2025. He will continue to be involved with the company, joining the Board as an Independent Non-Executive Director in January 2026.

During his time at the helm, Roy oversaw six consecutive years of profitability and more than £780 million deployed in property-backed loans to small businesses across the UK. Under his leadership, the business grew from a regional challenger into a recognised national alternative to traditional finance.

Chairman Tim Sawyer said:

“Roy has steered FOLK2FOLK through a transformative period, delivering consistent profitability and embedding the values that set this business apart. We’re grateful for his leadership and pleased we’ll continue to benefit from his insight and experience on the Board. At the same time, we’re delighted to warmly welcome Kawai as CEO. His depth and breadth of experience in financial services and alignment with our mission make him the right leader to take FOLK2FOLK into its next chapter.”

Kawai Chung Steps in as CEO

Taking over from Roy is Kawai Chung, who officially became Chief Executive Officer on 23rd September 2025. Kawai brings more than 20 years of experience in financial services and asset-backed investing, with senior leadership roles at challenger banks, private equity firms, and investment managers. His career includes work at SilverRock Financial Services (now part of GB Bank), Intriva Capital, and ARA Venn.

Kawai is a Chartered Accountant and holds degrees from the London School of Economics and University College London. His expertise covers capital markets, SME lending, and structured finance, with a track record in scaling lending businesses and building investor confidence.

Commenting on his appointment, Kawai said:

“I’m honoured to be joining FOLK2FOLK at such a pivotal moment. The business has carved out a distinctive space in UK finance, and I’m excited to build on that legacy. My focus will be on broadening our reach, strengthening our proposition, and continuing to deliver value for both borrowers and investors.”

Claire Richards to Join the Board

Alongside this transition, FOLK2FOLK has announced the appointment of Claire Richards as Executive Director Designate, subject to FCA approval. Claire, who has been with the company since 2018, is currently Head of Operations and brings valuable operational expertise to the Board.

Supporting Regional Businesses

Since launching in 2013, FOLK2FOLK has provided more than £780 million in secured lending to SMEs across the UK. The platform is known for supporting rural and regional businesses often overlooked by traditional lenders, while offering investors monthly income from property-secured investments.