One of the UK specialist finance sector’s most prominent distribution firms has paid tribute to Marc Goldberg following news of his forthcoming retirement from Together Financial Services, while also welcoming the lender’s planned succession.

Jason Berry, group sales director at Crystal Specialist Finance, described Goldberg as “a trusted friend and mentor” and praised his commercial leadership over nearly four decades with the lender.

“Marc’s contribution to Together’s success — and his support in helping us grow Crystal Specialist Finance — has been both significant and hugely appreciated,” said Berry. “His commercial acumen and ability to instil confidence when discussing deals or streamlining processes have consistently set him apart within the industry.”

Goldberg, Together’s chief executive of sales and distribution, will step down from the Group Board at the end of June ahead of his planned retirement in December 2026. Chief commercial officer Ryan Etchells is due to take on additional responsibilities for sales and distribution from 1 July as part of a structured handover.

Berry noted that while Crystal would miss working with Goldberg in his current capacity, there was equal optimism about the future under Etchells.

“Our relationship with Ryan is already strong and productive, and we’re confident about the positive direction both businesses are heading,” he said. “For us, it’s very much business as usual — but with a renewed sense of energy and opportunity as we continue to build on recent successes.”

Together announced a raft of senior appointments this morning, alongside confirmation of Goldberg’s retirement timeline, including the arrivals of Cheryl Brough as chief people officer, Dave Sutherland as chief operating officer, and Candice Lott as chief marketing officer. The lender said the changes reflect its ambition to strengthen leadership and drive growth across the group.