Former NAB executive joins Banjo Loans

Ryan Knight brings more than a decade of experience to the SME lender, most recently heading up business banking across south-east Melbourne at NAB.

Knight started his career during the global financial crisis, gaining early exposure to small business operations and cash flow management before moving into banking, where he built expertise across credit, structuring, and broker engagement.

In his new role, Knight will focus on deepening engagement with aggregators and brokers, expanding Banjo’s BDM footprint and ensuring the lender remains front of mind for SME finance solutions.

“Brokers are critical to Banjo’s growth strategy,” Knight said.

“It’s a contact sport – we need to be visible, accessible and consistent in market. My focus is making sure our team is in front of brokers and delivering a seamless experience from application through to funding.”

Since launching in 2015, Banjo has provided nearly $1 billion in loans. Knight said Banjo’s ability to provide larger, non-property-backed facilities with fast turnaround times was resonating with brokers and SME clients.

“There’s a clear gap between traditional bank processes and what SMEs need. Banjo sits in that space where we can move quickly, be flexible on structure and still deliver strong outcomes,” he said.

Knight also highlighted Banjo’s internal alignment and hands-on credit approach as a key differentiator.

“Our credit team is directly engaged. They’ll pick up the phone, work through scenarios and help get deals done. That level of responsiveness makes a real difference for brokers managing client expectations,” Knight said.

He also brings experience as both a banker and SME operator, having supported family-run ventures including a creative agency and beverage business.

Banjo Loans CEO Guy Callaghan said the appointment comes as the lender continues to invest in product innovation, people, and broker distribution.

“Ryan understands the broker channel and the SME customer inside out,” Callaghan said.

“His leadership and experience will help us scale our distribution capability while staying true to the service levels brokers expect.”

Last month (27 April), Banjo Loans also appointed Simon Beckett as the new chairman to replace the outgoing Rick Sawers.

Looking ahead, Knight said the opportunity to build on Banjo’s existing momentum was a key reason for joining the business.

“The foundations are already there. Banjo is made up of good, highly capable people and it has a clear niche and a growing brand,” he said.

“Now it’s about expanding our reach, investing in talent and continuing to evolve how we support brokers and their clients.”

[Related: Loan demand drops as SMEs turn defensive]

Want to see more stories from trusted news sources?
Make Broker Daily a preferred news source on Google.