Selina Finance has appointed Matthew Batte as head of intermediaries as the specialist lender looks to expand its presence in the broker market.

Batte (pictured) joins from Pepper Money UK, where he spent more than four years as a business development manager covering the South of England and Wales.

He brings over a decade of experience in specialist lending, having also held senior roles at Shawbrook Bank and Optimum Credit, as well as earlier experience as a broker at First Trust Finance.

At Selina, he will lead the lender’s intermediary strategy, working closely with sales, operations and marketing teams to strengthen relationships with networks and support brokers in using Selina’s flexible range of home equity products.

The appointment follows Selina’s relaunch of its home equity line of credit (HELOC) range in September, which simplified the structure for both brokers and borrowers. The refreshed products are designed to let homeowners release equity more flexibly, with interest charged only on the amount drawn, and borrowing available from £10,000 to £500,000.

Henry Vaughan, vice president of growth at Selina Finance, said: “Matt’s appointment is an integral step in expanding our intermediary presence. His experience, relationships and understanding of the specialist lending market will help us engage more brokers and show how Selina’s products can meet a wider range of client needs.

“We’re continuing to invest in our broker partnerships, and Matt will play a key role in driving that onwards.”

Batte added: “Selina Finance has a clear vision for how flexible lending should work for both brokers and customers.

“The HELOC and homeowner loan products offer brokers something genuinely different, and I’m looking forward to helping them see how these solutions can support clients’ plans in a responsible, accessible way.

“My focus will be on strengthening relationships with brokers and ensuring they receive clear, informed support.”