Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) has announced the appointment of Charles McDowell as managing director of its specialist mortgages division.

He will join the bank on 1 October 2018.

McDowell (pictured) has worked for Aldermore Bank since 2014, latterly as commercial director (mortgages).

He will sit on HTB’s executive committee and will report directly to the bank’s CEO, Matthew Wyles.

Wyles said: “Charles is a rising star in the mortgage market and I am pleased beyond words that he has agreed to join us. Our specialist lending business has massive, untapped potential and I know that Charles will lead the division with energy, flair and skill.

“He will be supported by Alex Upton who has just joined us as sales director – they will be a formidable double act.  I want HTB to be a magnet for the best and brightest talent in the market and Charles’ appointment is testament to that commitment.”

McDowell added: “Matthew and the Board of HTB have ambitious plans for the business and I am thrilled to be playing such an important role in developing and delivering the bank’s strategy in the specialist lending market.”