Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) has appointed Paula Priest as business development manager in its specialist mortgage team for the Midlands.
She will report to HTB’s specialist mortgage and bridging finance sales director, Andrea Glasgow.
Priest will work with Annie Crust, who will continue to manage her own network, to manage her own portfolio of estate agents in the region.
Priest joins from Birmingham Bank, where she was national account manager, and followed senior roles at Foundation Home Loans, The Mortgage Lender and Barclays.
With more than 35 years of experience in specialist and mainstream lending, she brings a strong network of broker relationships and a deep understanding of how deals should be structured.
Priest says: “I’ve worked with estate agents in the Midlands for many years and you quickly learn what really matters: honest conversations, clear updates and a lender who keeps a close eye on every case.
“That is what sets HTB apart: you can pick up the phone with people who know your deal and work with you to find a solution.
“I look forward to joining the team, working with Annie and continuing to build the strong partnerships HTB has in the region.”
Glasgow said: “The Midlands has been one of our strongest regions and that is down to the fantastic work Annie has done in building relationships with estate agents and setting such high standards of service.
“Paula’s appointment adds even more depth to the team, with each focusing on its own network of brokers to ensure we support demand across the region.
“She is extremely highly regarded in the market and brings exactly the kind of experience, energy and insight that really makes a difference in complex cases.
“I’m very happy to have her on board.”