Target Group has promoted Katie Pender to the position of chief operating officer (COO).

Pender joined Target in 2019 as head of client solutions, playing an integral role in the development and successful deployment of the group’s mortgage originations solution, Mortgage Hub. Most recently, she served as managing director of Elderbridge – a regulated lender and subsidiary of Target Group.

Prior to joining Target, Pender was a key member of the project team at Vertex Financial Services, helping key retail brands including Tesco Bank launch into the mortgage market. Following acquisition by Capita, Pender served as head of mortgage operations, before joining Computershare in 2018.

In her new role, Pender will support internal teams in building and developing strategic relationships with existing clients. She will also be focused on driving new business growth, mobilising teams and solutions such as Mortgage Hub, as well the company’s experience in business process servicing and digital transformation.

Pender (pictured) said: “I am incredibly proud to play my part in what has been a transformational period for the business. Mortgage Hub continues to drive disruption in the mortgage market and bring real innovation to the home buying process. Meanwhile, we have implemented disciplines and structures that have enabled us to become a product-centred business that prioritises innovation to enhance customer experiences and outcomes.

“It is a real privilege to continue in my career with Target as COO. We continue to remain focused on conduct, we have embraced Consumer Duty and strive to deliver good outcomes for our customers, giving our clients peace of mind. Our people and close synergy with Tech Mahindra will continue to be a key strength, recognising the valuable contributions of our expert team and the broad capabilities of the Tech Mahindra group to enhance our service and shape our business.”

Peter O’Connor, CEO of Target Group, added: “Katie’s appointment to COO recognises the integral role she has played throughout Target. Having her wealth of expertise and experience in such a strategic role is not just hugely valuable for us as a business – especially at such an exciting time – but it’s certainly reassuring for colleagues, partners and customers alike. With Mortgage Hub, our BPO services and our talented team, the future is incredibly bright at Target Group.”