Saffron Building Society has appointed Richard Clare as lending manager.

He has responsibility for assessing and preparing mortgage cases as well as improving the mutual’s bespoke underwriting capability.

As well as its Everyday and Special Situations range of mortgages, Saffron Building Society also considers more complex cases where bespoke lending solutions are required. Clare (pictured) will work with brokers and their clients to ensure the case is suitable and then help them prepare the necessary documentation for underwriting.

He has more than 20 years financial services experience gained with organisations including UBS, Coutts, Ahli United Bank, United Trust Bank, Clayton Euro Risk, Pure Bridging Ltd, Rooftop Mortgages, SPML and Halifax plc. He has experience as a senior lending manager working in the private banking, specialist lending, bridging, semi-commercial and residential mortgage sectors.

Sarah Howe, chief customer officer at Saffron Building Society, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Richard to Saffron Building Society, where his extensive lending experience will be put to excellent use.

“Saffron prides itself on offering a high quality, personal service where every application is individually assessed by a skilled underwriter. We don’t use credit scoring and Richard’s skills will be invaluable in helping brokers prepare and submit more complex mortgage applications.”

Clare said: “Saffron Building Society has developed a strong reputation for its approach to assessing mortgage applications and I’m looking forward to working with brokers in their offices over the course of the coming months.”