Victory Park Capital (VPC) announced Gordon Watson was named principal. Watson, a 15-year financial services veteran, will join the firm’s New York office.

In his role, Watson will primarily oversee sourcing, executing and managing direct private debt and equity investments in specialty finance. He will also oversee investments in public debt securities in middle-market companies.

Watson was previously a portfolio manager centered on distressed debt at GLG Partners, a London-based hedge fund. He joined GLG after it purchased One Hill Partners, a credit-focused hedge fund where Watson served as a partner.

“As our business continues to achieve accelerated growth, Gordon’s experience and depth of knowledge of specialty finance builds upon our already strong foundation in that sector,” said Richard Levy, chief executive officer and founder of VPC. “He also complements our investment strategies in public debt and the strength of our high-caliber team in New York.”

“I am proud to join the VPC team and help expand its New York operations,” said Watson. “Its experience in specialty finance is world-class and I look forward to helping grow our portfolio and seek new investment opportunities in the middle market.”