New Head of Broker Investments – Origination role supports AFG’s growing investments and partnerships pipeline.
Australian Finance Group Ltd (ASX: AFG) is expanding its capacity to help broker businesses grow through its Broker Investments program, with the appointment of Darren Little as Head of Broker Investments – Origination.
As the broking industry evolves and consolidates, AFG intends to play an active role by partnering with high-quality broker businesses. Darren will work with these brokerages to identify where AFG’s capital and experience can help them reach their goals, while owners retain control of day-to-day operations.
The appointment reflects AFG’s continued commitment to growing its Broker Investments program and confidence in the long-term outlook for the market. AFG Chief Financial Officer Luca Pietropiccolo said, “Darren brings deep industry experience, strong relationships and a genuine understanding of what it takes to build and grow a successful brokerage. His appointment gives us additional capacity to pursue new investment opportunities while continuing to support the broker businesses we’ve already partnered with.”
With 38 years’ experience across banking, mortgage distribution and broking, Darren has held senior leadership roles with responsibility for national lending strategy, broker performance, distribution growth and senior lender engagement. As CEO of AFG member broker Smartmove Professional Mortgage Advisors, he guided the business through several stages of its evolution, giving him first-hand insight into what brokerages need as they grow. Darren has also maintained a strong connection with AFG for more than 20 years, as both a lender partner and an AFG member.
“I’ll focus on identifying brokerages with strong growth potential in New South Wales and across Australia, both within and outside the AFG network, where AFG’s capital and experience can help owners achieve their ambitions,” said Mr Little. “I’m excited to join AFG and help ambitious brokerages across Australia reach their next stage of growth. I look forward to contributing to the next phase of investment and partnership opportunities.”
Darren joins Vik Sukumaran, who becomes Head of Broker Investments – Execution and Operations. Together, they bring experience in running brokerages, identifying investment opportunities and executing transactions.
“Having been at AFG for just over two years, I see an opportunity in this industry. Consolidation done well creates real value for all involved and, from my experience in other industries, I see enormous opportunities for brokerages. Darren’s insight into quality businesses provides an invaluable complement to AFG’s existing investment expertise, with our partner brokerages reaping the benefits,” Mr Sukumaran said.
Launched in November 2024, AFG’s Broker Investments program takes minority, non-controlling stakes in established brokerages, providing access to growth capital, acquisition support and strategic expertise while allowing owners to retain operational control.
Mr Pietropiccolo added, “We’ve navigated market cycles before and remain confident in the fundamentals and long-term outlook for the housing market and broking industry. We continue to see compelling opportunities to invest in quality broker businesses, and I look forward to what the team will achieve in growing the program and supporting our broker partners.”
For further information, please contact:
Alison Clarke
Head of Corporate Communications
M: 0402 781 367
E: mdmedia@afgonline.com.au
