Manchester FinTech Auden has hired a chief technology officer to deliver the next phase of its socially responsible lending platform.
Auden uses technology and data to provide affordable credit at scale to those who find it difficult to access mainstream finance.
Based in the tech-focused Enterprise City development at the Bonded Warehouse, it also helps people access products and services to build their financial capabilities, such as credit score builders and educational tools.
Shakeel Butt joins from Green Flag, one of the UK’s largest roadside assistance businesses.
As CTO there he led a technology transformation that rebuilt all its core systems, following on from his work at parent company Direct Line Group, which saw him implement the design, build and digital performance across all its personal and commercial lines.
“What attracted me to Auden is the opportunity to leverage the power of technology to do good – bringing competitively priced credit to the millions of people who need it to fund essential purchases but are too often overcharged,” said Butt.
“Auden sees the power of tech to make lending more efficient and less costly and deliver a meaningful social impact. I’m excited to have the opportunity to build a platform that can help people on a journey to greater financial resilience.”
Richard Bartlett, Auden CEO, added: “Having someone with Shak’s experience of building data-led tech platforms is critical as we begin to scale Auden’s business and develop products and services to help customers improve their financial position.
“Shak’s customer-focused experience will be invaluable for ensuring we meet customers’ specific needs.”