Marsden Building Society has appointed Jo Cave as its new head of mortgages as it sets out a roadmap for digital transformation and intermediary growth.

Cave (pictured) joins the Lancashire-based mutual from Barclays, where she held a number of positions over a 20-year career in mortgage operations.

Her experience also includes international leadership, having supported two of the bank’s mortgage centres in Mumbai and Chennai.

In total, she has worked in financial services for 23 years.

At the Marsden, Cave will lead the mortgage function at a time of significant investment in service innovation. The lender is planning to enhance its offering to intermediaries with the development of new digital platforms and the introduction of Assisted Decisioning technology.

A new front office portal is also scheduled for release in late 2025, aimed at improving the mortgage journey for both brokers and borrowers.

Speaking on her appointment, Cave said: “The Marsden’s culture, values and ambition is what drew me to the team. A mutual organisation that genuinely cares about its people and community is something that I’m proud to be a part of.

“It’s exciting to join at such a pivotal time for the Society, and I’m looking forward to supporting with bringing in new business and helping to improve the mortgage journey for both members and colleagues.

“Especially as we introduce new tools, like Assisted Decisioning, to make the process smoother and more efficient.”

Heather Crinion, operations director at Marsden Building Society, welcomed Cave’s arrival and emphasised the strategic importance of the role: “The next few years will be significant for the Marsden, as we look to develop and grow the services that we offer our intermediary partners,” she said.

“We’re pleased to have Jo on board, utilising her substantial experience and knowledge of the market to help drive us forward.”