Mark Hutchings has joined Crystal Specialist Finance as head of strategy and group products.

Hutchings joins from Berkeley Alexander Insurance Services where he was managing director.

In this newly created role, Hutchings will expand Crystal’s proposition and reach within the specialist lending sector.

Jason Berry, group sales and marketing director at Crystal Specialist Finance, said: “I am delighted to welcome Mark. He is an exceptional person who is always passionate about the work he undertakes. We have some fresh and exciting initiatives which Mark will now take the lead on.

“His appointment will undoubtedly help us to enhance the offering we deliver to the intermediary sector.”

Hutchings added: “I am extremely happy to be joining Crystal and very much look forward to being part of the exciting plans. I have spent most of my career finding solutions which make things easier for brokers to transact their business and I’m confident there are a few things which can be easily introduced by Crystal and as a result will help those brokers operating in the specialist sector.”