Crystal Mortgages has appointed Damien Druce as head of distribution and development to grow its number of exclusive broker network relationships.

Druce (pictured) will head-up internal and external sales teams with responsibility for key accounts and relationships with major partners.

He returns to lending having last worked Chaucer Syndicates where he held the title of northern regional development manager, before which he worked on a consultancy basis for several firms including retained project work for Joe Breeden, now managing director of Crystal Mortgages.

The company recently released its 2014 results with the business issuing terms of £664.3m, a full 38.7% increase on 2013, which was further complemented by a 33% rise in completions.

Brendon said: “The development of broker network relationships has long been on our agenda, but we needed to reach a position within the company whereby our financial and product offering is among the best in the market, if not one of the best.

“Now we have reached this crucial independent, all-of-market position, backed by a strong balance sheet, we needed the right person to concentrate on major partnerships. Damien fits the role perfectly, his proven track record within the lending sector makes him the ideal candidate, it is great to be working with him again.”