Richard Merrett has joined SimplyBiz Mortgages in the newly created role of head of strategic development.

Merrett (pictured) will be responsible for helping to shape and create the future direction of the Mortgage Club, working alongside the senior management team at SimplyBiz Mortgages.

Martin Reynolds, CEO of SimplyBiz Mortgages, said: “We are delighted that someone of Richard’s calibre has chosen to join us as we expand our business to help better serve our members and lender partners.

“Richard has a wealth of experience within the industry – at both management and business writer level – that I believe will be important as we develop our business model. Mortgage clubs will only remain as relevant to Members as their proposition and alignment to the adviser’s needs, as well as offering lenders and its insurance partners access to market.

“We have invested in a number of new key personnel during 2019, with more to follow in 2020, to ensure that SimplyBiz Mortgages continues to lead the way with its club and compliance proposition.”

Merrett added: “I am thrilled to be joining SimplyBiz Mortgages and to help develop their excellent proposition even further. The opportunity to work with Martin and the team is extremely exciting. I have remained client-facing throughout my career, so feel I am very well positioned to understand the needs of the consumer, the challenges they face and how intermediaries can help them in all aspects to deliver the best outcomes through the value of good advice.

“I look forward to working closely with our member firms and lender partners to help shape the future of the club.”