United Trust Bank has appointed Andrew Ferguson to a newly created commercial director role within its merged mortgages, buy-to-let and bridging division.

Ferguson (pictured) joins United Trust Bank following a 35-year career in banking and specialist property finance, having held senior roles at a number of lenders including Foundation Home Loans, Axis Bank and, most recently, West One Loans, where he was managing director for buy-to-let.

In his new position, Ferguson will report to Buster Tolfree, managing director for mortgages, buy-to-let and bridging. He will have responsibility for overseeing the sales teams across the combined division, as well as supporting the bank’s growth strategy and operational changes planned for 2026.

United Trust Bank’s priorities for the year ahead include further expansion into the residential mortgage market, the continued development of its complex buy-to-let proposition and identifying opportunities to enhance its established bridging offering.

The bank has also highlighted ambitions to increase its presence in the non-regulated bridging sector and to grow lending that exits refurbishment projects into buy-to-let mortgages.

Taking up his new role, Ferguson said: “I am delighted to join such a well-respected business and look forward to working with the team to further evolve the proposition across buy-to-let, bridging and mortgages.

“UTB is well placed to grow in these markets and has great people who are passionate about specialist lending and ensuring we look after our customers and intermediary partners.

“2026 will be an exciting year for UTB and I’m delighted to be a part of the journey.”

Tolfree added: “Andrew brings a wealth of experience to our senior leadership team, gained from a stellar career in specialist lending.

I am excited about the opportunities which lie ahead for UTB in mortgages, buy-to-let and bridging and Andrew is going to play a pivotal role in helping us to drive business growth in those markets. Bring on 2026!”