Lendi Group announces new CEO

Co-founder given top position of Aussie Home Loans owner

By William Farrington

24 Nov 2025

Sebastian Watkins (pictured) has been appointed chief executive of Lendi Group, succeeding co-founder David Hyman, effective 1 January 2026.

Hyman will remain on the board as a director and special advisor, continuing to lead the mortgage broking group’s AI and growth strategy.

Watkins, who co-founded Lendi with Hyman in 2013, has served as chief operating officer since the 2021 acquisition of broking franchise Aussie Home Loans.

Having acted as chief executive since March 2025 as part of planned succession, Watkins has been instrumental in executing the Group’s “Find, Buy, Own” strategy.

“After 13 years building Lendi Group, I’ve decided to transition from my current CEO role, while remaining on the Board focusing on priority areas where I can add the most value to the business,” Hyman said. “Sebastian (Bas) is a world-class leader and a true champion for customers and broker success."

Speaking on his appointment, Watkins said: "As CEO, my focus now will be delivering for customers and brokers, scaling Find, Buy, Own to its full potential, and building on the momentum in the business.

“I'm proud to lead Lendi Group into its next chapter with our people, brokers, lending and product partners, and the support of an exceptional leadership team.”

Lendi Group chair Ellie Comerford added: "This leadership transition reflects thoughtful succession planning and the strength of the successful founding partnership built by David and Sebastian over the last decade.

“Sebastian has proven himself as an outstanding leader through this period, and David's continued involvement as a member of the board ensures we retain his strategic vision and AI expertise as we scale.

The board has full confidence in Sebastian and the executive team to deliver on our growth ambitions."

Lendi Group chair Ellie Comerford said the transition “reflects thoughtful succession planning,” and the board has “full confidence in Sebastian and the executive team.”