Saffron Building Society has appointed Peter Izard as head of mortgages.

He will be responsible for mortgage delivery across both the intermediary and branch channels for the Society. He has over 20 years’ experience in the intermediary mortgage market, having worked at Portillion, GMAC-RFC, Intelligent Finance and Halifax.

Izard will work closely alongside Michelle Milne who is responsible for advised and specialist support in the intermediary and direct mortgage markets.

Steve Reid, general manager, sales and distribution at Saffron Building Society, said: “I am pleased we have secured the services of such an experienced, high-profile and respected individual in the mortgage market. The Society recognises the importance of the intermediary market and is developing an interesting new approach to the sector. Peter will bring much experience to our developing mortgage strategy.”

Izard said: “When I met with the Saffron team I was extremely impressed with its vision. New products and flexible underwriting coupled with realistic criteria and willingness to listen to brokers and clients ensures Saffron offers a much needed and sought after service to its members.

“The current prevailing market conditions provide an ideal environment for the smaller regional building societies to thrive and provide a real alternative to borrowers excluded by the majority of lenders.”