Islamic property finance fintech firm, Offa, has announced a new raft of appointments across its mortgage and operations teams.
The company provides an ethical finance model designed in accordance with Islamic finance principles, which means not charging interest and investment into sectors deemed harmful to society – such as alcohol, tobacco, animal testing and the arms trade.
Mehreen Rafiq has joined Offa as senior underwriter, having previously worked at Barclays for more than a decade in senior underwriting roles and also as a contractor for Offa a year before starting her new role. Mehreen said: “I am really excited to be joining a company with such experienced Islamic finance leadership. It’s going to be a big year.”
She is joined by Shamila Kausar, customer service officer, who has experience in banking, customer service, client support and operational efficiency. Shamila said: “I joined Offa to pursue a career that aligns with my interests in finance and helping people secure their homes. This is an opportunity to grow professionally, build expertise in the Islamic finance industry and contribute to clients' financial well-being by providing them with guidance and access to home financing solutions.”
Aamna Khan, Offa’s new operations team lead, joins from HSBC where she was a senior mortgage financial support specialist. She said: “I have joined Offa because of its innovative approach within the property sector, hoping to expand my knowledge further within this sector. Offa proposes a desirable approach which focuses on real estate assets and ethical investments all while being Sharia compliant that benefits communities.”
Offa has also hired Shamim Rahman as mortgage underwriter, who brings more than a decade of experience in the finance field, having previously worked at Precise Mortgages. He said: “I joined Offa because of its innovative approach to financial services and commitment to fostering growth and excellence. The company’s vision aligns with my personal and professional goals, and I am excited to be part of a team that values collaboration and innovation.”
Abdullah-Isa Amole, Offa’s new financial planning and analysis manager, said: “We spend most of our lives at work, so finding a business that is aligned with my values as a Muslim is great. It is also very exciting to be working for a company that is rapidly scaling up and offering a uniquely modern service in this industry.”
Finally, Offa has hired financial controller Sukhdev Atwal, who has more than a decade of experience as an accountant. He said: “Joining Offa at its early stages was an exciting opportunity for me, as it allowed me to contribute to the development of a finance team capable of collaborating with the executive team to drive more informed and strategic business decisions.”
Sagheer Malik, chief commercial officer and managing director of retail finance at Offa, commented: “It has been a big year of growth for Offa, with the launch of our fast and easy buy-to-let product and our acquisition of Bank of Ireland’s Alburaq home finance book. Having the right team to provide the consistently high levels of customer service and industry experience we insist upon is crucial, and that is why I am so proud of every new member of staff we have hired.”
