Introducing Robert Orr – Atelier’s New Non-Executive Director

Atelier is delighted to welcome Robert Orr to the Board as a new Non-Executive Director (NED). With an extensive career in development finance and a deep understanding of the SME developer landscape, Robert brings valuable experience and insight to Atelier as we enter our next phase of growth.

As a NED, Robert’s role is to provide strategic guidance, scrutinise performance, and support the business as it evolves. He is also a member of the Board Credit Committee, contributing his expertise to Atelier’s lending decisions.

Why Atelier?

Robert was drawn to Atelier because of our established position as a specialist development lender and our ambitious growth plans. “Atelier is an established debt platform with a clear vision for the future, and that aligns well with my experience. The senior management team, led by Chris Gardner, is impressive, and with M&G as the majority shareholder, there’s a strong foundation for growth.”

The landscape for SME developers

Looking at the broader market, Robert believes that 2025 brings cautious optimism for SME developers. “Successful developers focus on delivering the right product, in the right locations, at the right price point – but in the current market, opportunities that fit these criteria are scarce. Land acquisition costs remain one of the few controllable factors.”

He highlights that government support in areas such as planning reform, environmental assessments, and affordable housing contributions could provide much-needed momentum for the sector. “Private housing starts need to increase, and that means some trade-offs will be necessary.”

On the financing side, he notes that SME developers now have access to a broad range of specialist funders who understand their needs and have capital to deploy, which is a positive shift for the industry.

Opportunities for Atelier

Robert sees Atelier’s ability to offer up to 70% GDV development loans as a key advantage for SME developers looking to maximise their equity across multiple projects. However, he emphasises that it’s not just about leverage – it’s about reliability. “Developers and brokers need to work with lenders who deliver. Atelier’s speed in assessing new business, moving from initial terms to credit approval, and ultimately delivering on commitments is crucial.

Equally important is the approach we take when things don’t go according to plan. Developers want a lender that is understanding and solutions-focused, rather than one that takes advantage of the situation. Atelier has built strong relationships with its clients and brokers, as reflected in the high levels of repeat business.”

Beyond residential development, Robert also recognises Atelier’s growing niche in care home development finance, where the team’s expertise and strategic approach have proven successful.

Challenges in the market

The past few years have seen a series of disruptive events – Brexit, COVID, build cost inflation, rising funding costs, and political changes. Looking ahead, Robert sees economic uncertainty continuing to play a role in the housing market. “Mortgage rates, government borrowing costs, and the lack of support mechanisms like Help to Buy all have an impact. Buy-to-let investors are also less active, which affects housing market liquidity.”

From a lending perspective, he stresses the importance of balancing growth with appropriate risk and return. “The development finance sector has a lot of capital to deploy, but funders need to remain disciplined. Competing on terms that sit outside market norms can create challenges down the line.”

Atelier’s next chapter

Looking ahead, Robert believes Atelier is well positioned for its next phase of growth. “Having successfully established its platform and brand, the next step is to scale the loan book while maintaining the right balance between risk and reward. Expanding the Origination team is a key part of this strategy, and several new hires are already in place.”

Atelier is also focused on enhancing operational efficiencies to better serve clients while accommodating growth without materially increasing costs. “It’s about refining the way we work, ensuring we remain agile and responsive to client needs.”

A career in development finance

Robert’s journey into development finance began at NatWest before he moved to Close Brothers in 1997, where he specialised in the sector. “I’ve always enjoyed seeing projects come to life – whether it’s student accommodation, a new housing estate, or the conversion of an old industrial building. It’s a tangible and rewarding industry.”

He went on to establish Titlestone with Oaktree Capital in 2012, pioneering stretched senior development finance. Over six years, Titlestone deployed over £2.3bn before being acquired by Paragon Bank, where Robert led the development finance team until 2022. He then transitioned to advisory roles before joining Atelier’s Board in mid-2024.

Advice for those looking to build a career in development finance

For those aspiring to enter the industry, Robert encourages hands-on learning. “Development finance is a rewarding sector with plenty of opportunities. The best way to learn is to get involved – listen in on credit meetings, visit development sites, and understand the challenges developers face. The more effort you put in, the more you’ll gain.”

He also highlights the satisfaction of supporting developers. “Backing a project and seeing it come to fruition is incredibly rewarding. Even when challenges arise, working with developers to find solutions is part of what makes this industry so dynamic.”

Beyond work

Outside of work, Robert is a keen traveller and enjoys golfing – even if, as he admits, his skills don’t quite match his enthusiasm. He’s also a dedicated football fan, following both Manchester United and his local team, Bromley Town. Most importantly, he enjoys spending time with his three young grandsons.

We’re thrilled to have Robert on board and look forward to welcoming him to the business.