When Priya Harley joined OakNorth in 2015, the bank was still in its infancy — no brand and no set playbook to follow. Fast forward nearly a decade, and she has played a crucial role in shaping OakNorth’s lending proposition, developing its market strategy, and executing some of its most significant transactions. As a Director of Debt Finance, she’s helped transform the business into a leading player in the UK’s financial ecosystem.

We caught up with Priya to hear about her journey, what makes OakNorth different, and what she enjoys most about her role.

What made you join OakNorth?

Priya: I had only recently been promoted to Relationship Director at my previous bank when Ben Barbanel, Head of Debt Finance, who I’d worked with before, called me about joining OakNorth. At the time, OakNorth had no brand, no pricing model, and they were just working out its lending strategy – but I was excited by the opportunity to help build something from the ground up.

How does OakNorth differentiate itself from competitors when it comes to employee proposition?

Priya: OakNorth is a rare hybrid between a traditional bank and a fund. You’re not boxed into rigid structures — there’s flexibility to bring innovative deals to the table. The accessibility is also unique — having face time with senior leaders and the ability to directly influence decision-making makes you feel empowered.

The entrepreneurial energy is another big differentiator. There’s a real buzz — you live and breathe the work, and no two days are the same.

What are some of the key benefits of working at OakNorth?

Priya: The culture is genuinely dynamic and vibrant. Our London office is a great environment for collaboration — customers even comment on how much they enjoy coming in.

On a professional level, the exposure here is unparalleled. Over the past 10 years, I’ve worked on a huge variety of deals across different sectors, giving me insights into lending structures that extend far beyond traditional banking.

What qualities or skills do you think are essential for success here?

Priya: You have to be confident, open to feedback, and able to hold your own in high-pressure settings like credit committees. You need a dynamic personality, the ability to adapt quickly, and the drive to take ownership of your work.

What growth and development opportunities have you had at OakNorth?

Priya: The exposure I’ve had here would have been impossible at a traditional bank. I’ve been part of shaping OakNorth’s lending strategy, developing pricing structures, and refining our approach to the market. I’ve also had opportunities to speak at industry events and webinars, which have helped me grow professionally.

On a personal level, I’ve experienced major milestones during my time here, from getting married to having two children. Coming back from maternity leave was a challenge — but OakNorth was incredibly supportive, giving me the space to rebuild my pipeline without micromanagement.

What’s your favourite thing about working at OakNorth?

Priya: The entrepreneurial mindset — no deal is off-limits if you can make the case for it. I love the excitement of structuring solutions, presenting them to credit committee, and seeing them come to life. Working with our CEO and Co-founder, Rishi Khosla, Ben and the whole team to execute ambitious deals is incredibly rewarding.

What have been some of your biggest highlights since joining OakNorth?

Priya: In my first year, I led a £9.5m deal, which was the biggest the bank had done at the time. I’ll never forget Rishi coming over and giving me a big high-five — that moment really captured the energy and ambition of the team.

How would you describe the culture at OakNorth?

Priya: It’s inclusive, social, and encourages you to have your own voice. It can be challenging at times, but that’s what makes it such a rewarding place to work.

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve received?

Priya: Ben once told me: “No question is a stupid question, and if you don’t know the answer, don’t try to .” That’s always stuck with me.

Finally, what do you get up to outside of work?

Priya: Spending time with my family is my top priority. I also enjoy catching up with friends at a rooftop bar in London on a sunny afternoon.