Ripley
Salgueiro
Founder & CEO
First Time Finance
Ripley didn’t follow a conventional path into finance. From leaving school with no GCSEs to running his own award-nominated firm, he’s built a business that celebrates authenticity and access. At First Time Finance, he combines specialist expertise with a people-first approach that’s transforming how first-time buyers experience advice.
2025
"I have come from a background I would consider non-typical for this industry, which I believe gives me the ability to think outside the box and contribute with different ideas."
From overcoming barriers to business ownership:
Ripley's story so far...
Ripley’s early journey wasn’t easy. Leaving school without qualifications, he was told that success wasn’t within reach - but he refused to accept that. Determined to create his own opportunities, he joined Capricorn Financial Consultancy as a trainee adviser and worked his way up to become one of their youngest senior brokers.
After several high-performing years, Ripley founded First Time Finance in 2023 with a mission to make mortgage advice inclusive and transparent, particularly for clients often overlooked by the mainstream - including NHS workers, care professionals, and first-time buyers from diverse backgrounds.
His work quickly made an impact. In less than two years, Ripley grew the business into a thriving firm with a team of eight, six of whom are under 30 and five of whom are women - reflecting his belief that representation matters.
He’s built his success not through privilege but through persistence - taking his experiences and turning them into purpose. Ripley’s leadership style is both practical and empowering, inspiring his team to believe that no obstacle is too great with the right mindset.
Now he’s proving that financial services can be led by people from a wide range of routes to the industry.
Ripley's career highlights
- Joined Capricorn Financial Consultancy and became their youngest senior adviser.
- Founded First Time Finance in 2023, growing the business to an eight-person team.
- Specialised in supporting NHS and care sector workers with complex mortgage needs.
- Created a workplace that champions women and young advisers in finance.
- Recognised for innovation, inclusivity, and leadership in the mortgage industry.
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