Biography of Sebastian Watkins: Co-Founder and COO of Lendi Group -Entrepreneur
Biography of Sebastian Watkins:
Sebastian Watkins is a Co-Founder and COO of Lendi Group, a
leading mortgage platform and retail brokerage in Australia. With a career
spanning over a decade, Watkins, alongside his team, has established Lendi
Group as a transformative player in the industry. The group now manages over
$100 billion in loans, employs more than 1,300 brokers, and operates 229 retail
stores across the country. This remarkable growth reflects the team’s
commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology and superior customer experiences.
Educational Roots and Early Beginnings
Sebastian's journey began at Curtin University, where he
studied from 2002 to 2006, following his formative years at Scotch College. His
education laid the groundwork for a career focused on innovation, strategic
thinking, and business development. These early experiences helped him develop
the skills necessary to navigate complex markets and create impactful
solutions.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Tipping Point Ventures
In 2009, Sebastian co-founded Tipping Point Ventures Pty
Ltd, a company dedicated to building and investing in disruptive internet
businesses. This venture marked his initial foray into entrepreneurship and set
the stage for future successes. His ability to identify and nurture innovative
business models has been a consistent hallmark of his career.
Creating Click Loans: A Digital Mortgage Experience
Sebastian co-founded Click Loans in 2014, an online home
loan platform aimed at simplifying the mortgage process for Australians. The
platform's unique approach combined technology with personalized support,
ensuring that customers received both convenience and expert guidance. Under
his leadership, Click Loans gained recognition for its customer-first approach,
underscoring his dedication to improving financial services.
The Launch of TheWholesaler.com.au
In 2012, Sebastian briefly explored the automotive industry
by co-founding TheWholesaler.com.au, a platform for wholesale car trading.
Although this venture was short-lived, it demonstrated his versatility and
willingness to tackle challenges in different sectors.
Biography of Sebastian Watkins: Co-Founder and COO of Lendi Group -Entrepreneur#startup#age#net worth#investor#Lendi Group#Sebastian Watkins story
Building Sales Success with LivingSocial
Sebastian joined LivingSocial in 2010, where he played a
pivotal role in scaling the company’s presence in Australia and New Zealand. As
Sales Director for Daily Deals, he expanded the team from eight to 160 business
development professionals, propelling LivingSocial to the number one position
in the region. This experience honed his leadership and operational expertise,
laying the foundation for his later ventures.
Innovative Approach at Lendi Group
At Lendi Group, Sebastian has overseen the integration of
the Lendi and Aussie Home Loans brands, creating a powerhouse in the mortgage
sector. By leveraging Australia's robust $2.2 trillion debt base and strong
culture of homeownership, the group has pioneered a sustainable business model.
Its white-label products, including Aussie Select, Activate, and Elevate, have
further solidified its market position.
Strategic Acquisitions and Growth
One of the significant milestones under Sebastian's
leadership was the acquisition of Aussie Home Loans. This move not only
expanded the group's market reach but also reinforced its position as a leader
in the mortgage industry. The strategic focus on digital transformation and
customer-centric services has been instrumental in achieving these outcomes.
Recognitions and Milestones
Under Sebastian’s guidance, Lendi Group has achieved several
accolades, including being named the #1 brokerage by The Adviser’s Top 25
Brokerages in 2024. His leadership has also driven a tripling of Aussie Home
Loans' lodgment penetration, showcasing the group’s ability to deliver
exceptional results even in competitive markets.
Resilience and Legacy
Sebastian believes in the power of resilience and values
seizing opportunities to create lasting impact. Guided by the philosophy,
“Tough times don’t last, but tough people do,” he continues to inspire his
teams to innovate and excel. Through his ventures, he has not only shaped the
mortgage industry but also set a benchmark for entrepreneurship in Australia.
Timeline of Sebastian Watkins' Career and Achievements
2002-2006: Studied at Curtin University.
2009: Co-founded Tipping Point Ventures Pty Ltd.
2010: Joined LivingSocial as Sales Director for Daily Deals.
2012: Co-founded TheWholesaler.com.au.
2014: Co-founded Click Loans, an online mortgage platform.
2024: Lendi Group named #1 brokerage by The Adviser’s Top 25
Brokerages.
