United Trust Bank (UTB) has appointed Brad Rhodes as head of clubs and networks within its bridging, buy-to-let and mortgages division as the specialist lender continues to invest in intermediary distribution.
Rhodes (main picture) joins the bank from Pepper Money UK, where he spent four years as national key account manager.
Prior to that he held senior intermediary relationship roles at Platform and Santander, building extensive experience working with mortgage clubs, networks, packagers and broker firms.
In his new role, Rhodes will report to Caroline Mirakian, proposition and marketing director – mortgages, BTL and bridging, and will be responsible for developing relationships with mortgage clubs, networks and key distribution partners across UTB’s residential mortgage, buy-to-let, bridging and second charge businesses.
BIG INVESTMENT
His appointment comes during a period of significant investment across the lender’s specialist lending operations, with UTB introducing a range of technology, criteria and service enhancements aimed at improving turnaround times and simplifying the application process for brokers.
Caroline Mirakian, proposition and marketing director – mortgages, buy-to-let and bridging at United Trust Bank, says: “I am absolutely delighted to welcome Brad to UTB.
“We have ambitious plans across our Mortgages, Buy-to-Let, Bridging and Second Charge businesses and strong relationships with clubs and networks are central to achieving those goals.
“Brad brings tremendous experience, energy and market knowledge, together with a genuine passion for the intermediary sector.
“Having spent many years working with clubs, networks and brokers, he understands exactly what intermediary partners need from lender relationships and how important those partnerships are in delivering great customer outcomes.”
BROKER SUPPORT
Rhodes adds: “I am thrilled to be joining UTB at such an exciting time. Throughout my career I have worked closely with brokers, clubs and networks and have always been passionate about the specialist lending sector, where some of the most rewarding work happens helping customers find solutions that may not be available elsewhere.
“There is a real momentum behind the business.”
“UTB has built an outstanding reputation for service, specialist expertise and broker support, and there is a real momentum behind the business.
“My focus is simple: to build strong, lasting partnerships with clubs and networks, help grow distribution in a way that genuinely works for intermediaries.
“I am looking forward to working with our partners and helping even more brokers understand the opportunities available through UTB’s expanding range of specialist lending solutions.”
