Nationwide has announced the appointment of James Briffitt as its new head of intermediary sales and new build.

As part of this newly created position, Briffitt (pictured) will be responsible for leading Nationwide’s intermediary sales teams and driving forward its new-build activity.

He will report into Nationwide’s director of intermediary relationships, Ian Andrew.

Briffitt has extensive experience in the intermediary and new build markets. He has been with Nationwide for 12 years, most recently as its regional manager for London and South East.

Before joining Nationwide, Briffitt held senior roles at Legal and General and Northern Rock.

Briffitt said: “I’m delighted to be given this opportunity and look forward to working with intermediaries, developers and specialist new-build brokers across the country.

“Intermediary business is hugely important to both Nationwide and The Mortgage Works and we are determined to continue delivering a market leading proposition in both the residential and buy-to-let markets.”

Ian Andrew, Nationwide’s director of intermediary relationships, said: “I’m delighted that James is stepping into the role of head of intermediary sales and new build. His extensive experience and deep understanding of the residential, buy-to-let and new-build markets, along with his passion, drive and vision for the future, means he is the ideal candidate to help us further strengthen our position in the intermediary sector.”