FOLK2FOLK Appoints New CEO to Strengthen SME Lending

FOLK2FOLK, the UK’s largest peer-to-peer business lending platform, has announced a planned leadership transition which will build on six years of profitability and position the company for its next phase of growth. 

Roy Warren, Managing Director of FOLK2FOLK since 2019, is retiring from the business and will join the Board as an Independent Non-Executive Director in January 2026. From 23rd September 2025, he is succeeded by Kawai Chung as Chief Executive Officer, with Roy supporting a smooth transition. 

Under Roy’s leadership, multi award-winning FOLK2FOLK has delivered six consecutive years of profitability, establishing a strong and sustainable platform for growth. The business has deployed more than £780 million in property-backed loans to small businesses across the UK, evolving from a regional challenger into a recognised national alternative to traditional finance. It is known for its human approach, consistent delivery for borrowers and investors, and a commitment to supporting regional businesses and economies.

Tim Sawyer, Chairman of FOLK2FOLK, 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 joins FOLK2FOLK with over 20 years’ experience in financial services and asset-backed investing. He has held senior leadership roles at challenger banks, private equity firms, and investment managers, including SilverRock Financial Services (now part of GB Bank), Intriva Capital, and ARA Venn. His expertise spans capital markets, SME lending, and structured finance, with a strong track record in scaling lending businesses and building investor confidence. He is a Chartered Accountant and holds degrees from the London School of Economics and University College London. 

Kawai Chung, incoming CEO of FOLK2FOLK, commented: “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 strengthening our lending proposition, deepening our broker relationships, and continuing to deliver value for UK SMEs and their introducers.”

The company also announces the appointment of Claire Richards as Executive Director Designate, subject to FCA approval. Claire is Head of Operations at FOLK2FOLK and has been with the company since 2018. Her appointment brings operational expertise to the Board. 

Since its launch in 2013, FOLK2FOLK has facilitated more than £780 million in secured lending to SMEs across the UK. Its model supports rural and regional businesses often overlooked by traditional lenders, while offering investors monthly income from property-secured investments.