Wisr taps Sam Harding as COO

Wisr has announced the appointment of Sam Harding (pictured) as chief operating officer. Harding brings two decades of leadership experience in banking and financial services. 

Harding most recently led Westpac’s Auto Finance business as its COO, and previously held senior roles at Bankwest, including head of credit analysis and operations, overseeing new-to-bank clients acquired via the commercial broking and small business channels. 

In his new role, Harding will oversee operational strategy and delivery across Wisr’s personal loan and secured vehicle loan units, while driving key transformation initiatives to support the company’s long-term growth ambitions. 

“We’re incredibly pleased to welcome Sam to the Wisr team,” Wisr CEO Andrew Goodwin said. “As we continue to grow a sustainable, profitable business with strong unit economics, Sam's depth of operational expertise, leadership capability and alignment with our purpose makes him an exceptional fit for this next phase of our journey.” 

“I’m delighted to join Wisr at such a pivotal time,” Harding said. “The company’s clear sense of purpose, innovative mindset and impressive track record in the lending sector are what drew me to this opportunity. I look forward to working with Wisr’s executive leadership team to drive operational excellence and create meaningful value for customers and shareholders.” 

The appointment follows sustained loan book growth, supported by disciplined credit performance and continued investment in automation and technology-led operating models. 

Secured personal loan launched for broker channel 

Wisr has also expanded its lending suite with the launch of a secured personal loan, initially available exclusively through accredited Australian brokers. 

The new product allows borrowers to secure their personal loan with a qualifying asset such as a car or caravan, in exchange for a reduced interest rate. 

Key features include: 

• Loan amounts up to $65,000 (including fees) 
• Ability to secure with an already-owned vehicle 
• Higher LVRs and broader eligibility than traditional secured vehicle loans 

“Brokers have consistently asked us for a secured personal loan product, and we’ve delivered,” said Nicole Evans, head of broker at Wisr.  

“This launch reflects our commitment to building products that best serve brokers and their clients. It also highlights Wisr’s focus on deepening relationships with our broker partners and ensuring they have the tools and products they need to succeed.” 

Wisr plans to make the secured personal loan available directly to consumers in the coming months, continuing its strategy to offer more choice and support Australians in achieving their personal and financial goals. 

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