Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) has expanded its underwriting teams across specialist mortgages and bridging finance, underlining its push to give brokers faster access to experienced decision-makers.

In specialist mortgages, Russell Harvey has joined from Landbay, bringing further experience from Darlington Building Society, Together and Foundation Home Loans. Within the same division, Denis Arefyev has been promoted to senior underwriter.

On the bridging side, the bank has made a series of hires. Jack Unsworth arrives from Glenhawk, having also worked at United Trust Bank, while Krisha Karunananthan has joined from Funding 365.

Nim Shah has also come in from United Trust Bank, and Faith Ndebele has moved from TAB, having previously worked at Alternative Bridging Corporation. Earlier this year, James Hine was promoted from senior underwriter to head of underwriting, bridging finance.

The changes come as HTB looks to reinforce its reputation for giving brokers direct lines into underwriting expertise. Unlike many lenders, the bank emphasises that brokers do not need to book appointments to reach a decision-maker.

Andrea Glasgow, sales director, specialist mortgages and bridging finance at HTB, said: “Brokers tell us time and again that what they value most is being able to speak directly to an underwriter who understands their case. These hires give us more depth to deliver that.”

Alex Upton, managing director, specialist mortgages and bridging finance at HTB, added: “Brokers are facing clients who need more help than ever, whether it is tackling refinancing pressures, reshaping portfolios or structuring complex property deals.

“That is why experienced underwriters matter. By strengthening our underwriting teams, we are helping brokers plan with confidence, knowing HTB will be there to support them and their clients over the long term.”