Andrew
Bate
Senior Underwriter
Hope Capital
After graduating with a first-class degree in English Literature, Andrew joined Hope Capital in 2021, eager to apply his analytical mindset to financial services. Within six months, his drive and capability earned him a promotion to Case Manager - followed by two further promotions, first to Underwriter, and then to Senior Underwriter in 2023. Now responsible for structuring Hope Capital’s most complex and high-value deals, Andrew combines deep technical knowledge with an instinct for problem-solving. His work is characterised by speed, accuracy, and empathy - qualities that have made him a trusted figure among colleagues, brokers, and clients alike.
2025
"To join the business in 2021 and earn two promotions within a year is a testament to his capability [and] work ethic"
Breaking records and redefining underwriting excellence:
Andrew's story so far...
Since joining Hope Capital, Andrew has played a vital role in some of the firm’s biggest milestones. His contribution to the lender’s record-breaking February 2025, where he personally wrote £8.7 million of new business, underlines his commercial impact. Highlights included a £3.8m semi-commercial acquisition bridge, a £2.2m development exit facility, and a £1.4m exit loan supporting the sale of seven new-build homes.
In August, he completed £7.5m of new business, including a £2.6m bridge on a commercial site with planning permission for a 26-unit residential scheme - achieving an extraordinary two-working-day turnaround from cost undertaking to drawdown.
Andrew’s standout moment came when he completed one of Hope Capital’s fastest-ever transactions - a residential re-bridge in just five working days. By creatively leveraging title insurance, waiving upfront legal undertakings, and adapting valuation criteria, he delivered an urgent funding solution that saved a client’s property portfolio.
His contribution has been recognised both internally and externally. Andrew was named the first-ever recipient of Hope Capital’s ‘Star of Hope’ Award, chosen by the Senior Leadership Team for his consistent excellence, professionalism, and leadership.
Andrew's career highlights
- Promoted three times in under three years, now Senior Underwriter at Hope Capital.
- Personally wrote £8.7m in new business during Hope Capital’s record-breaking month.
- Delivered one of the fastest completions in company history - five working days.
- Winner of Hope Capital’s inaugural ‘Star of Hope’ Award for outstanding contribution.
- Recognised by brokers and clients for exceptional speed, collaboration, and service.
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