Shawbrook has promoted Louise Apollonio to sales and distribution director for retail mortgages, as the bank looks to strengthen its intermediary proposition following recent integrations.

The lender earlier this year merged the business development teams of The Mortgage Lender (TML) and Bluestone Mortgages into a single unit, a move designed to streamline operations and build scale in the retail mortgage market.

Apollonio will now take responsibility for shaping and delivering the combined sales and distribution strategy, overseeing both corporate accounts and regional business development managers.

Steve Griffiths, commercial director for retail mortgages at Shawbrook, said the promotion underlined the opportunities the bank offers for career progression. “Louise’s journey is a great example of the opportunities Shawbrook provides for talented individuals to grow and develop their careers,” he said.

“She is widely respected by colleagues and partners alike, and her appointment strengthens our sales and distribution capability at a pivotal time.

“With Louise’s leadership, we’re well placed to support our intermediary partners and continue growing our presence in the retail mortgage market.”