LendInvest has appointed Darrell Walker as managing director of mortgages as the specialist lender seeks to expand its broker-led business.
Walker (pictured) will oversee the mortgage division, with an initial focus on refining the lender’s product mix and aligning its offering more closely with borrowers’ needs.
He will also be responsible for strengthening engagement with mortgage brokers, improving borrower retention and developing customer acquisition strategies.
The appointment follows the launch of LendInvest’s semi-commercial buy-to-let proposition, which is intended to help property professionals diversify their portfolios with higher-value assets.
BUMPER YEAR
LendInvest Mortgages reported annual loan originations of £1.44 billion, an increase of 17% on the previous financial year.
John Eastgate, chief commercial officer at LendInvest, said: “It really is a pivotal moment here at LendInvest as we enter into this next phase from a position of strength.
“Darrell is a statement hire for LendInvest. He is well-respected in the industry, and as a leader he will bring a depth of experience and strategic awareness to the team.
“His arrival reinforces our commitment to the long-term and sustainable growth of our broker-led business model.
“We’re coming off a record-breaking year for new lending, and we’re continuing to introduce new offerings like semi-commercial buy-to-let.
“As the market evolves, we need to continue to tell our story by delivering competitive and reliable solutions that meet the changing needs of borrowers and property investors.”
“Market-leading technology and a fantastic team.”
Walker said: “What drew me to LendInvest was the company culture, market-leading technology and the fantastic team doing innovative work.
“In today’s evolving market, brokers and their clients need speed, flexibility, and absolute certainty that a lender will deliver on. LendInvest is exceptionally well-placed to make the mortgage process simple for everyone.
“While LendInvest is respected in the industry, our broad proposition makes us sort of a ‘best-kept secret’, and I’m looking forward to changing that.
“My priority is to continue to build lasting broker relationships and ensure more intermediaries across England, Scotland and Wales have the opportunity to experience our service and expertise firsthand.”