The move follows the recent announcement that Adam Tyler is standing down after 11 years at the helm. Lankey starts with immediate effect to assist with the handover.

Lankey, who left Aldermore at the end of June 2016 after nine years, was formerly managing director of commercial mortgages and property development finance.

He previously led the development of Norwich & Peterborough Building Society’s commercial mortgage business for 17 years until, in 2007, he became the executive director of lending and operations at a new start-up commercial lender, Base Commercial Mortgages.

Shortly afterwards Base merged with Ruffler Bank, which subsequently became Aldermore.

Lankey spearheaded Aldermore’s three-year sponsorship in 2010 which included a beneficial override scheme, generating significant income for the association in 2012 and assisting its relocation from Exeter to London.

Paul Goodman, NACFB chairman, said: “Rob’s worked for over 25 years at senior patrons of the NACFB and is a well-respected, leading figure in his market place. Rob brings vast experience of not only the specialist and intermediated commercial finance sector but also the proven ability to install structure and governance in businesses – an essential attribute for the association as we evolve in this ever challenging regulated environment. A true innovator and excellent business leader, we’re thrilled to secure his services.”

Lankey added: “I’ve been closely involved with the NACFB since the mid-nineties and have always been a strong supporter of its ambitions and aims. I’m excited about the opportunity to help Paul and the board of the NACFB as it embarks on the next step of its journey.

“I’ve been a good friend of Adam Tyler for many years now and am honoured to follow in his footsteps.”