Simon Burnell, formerly director of sales at Vida Homeloans, has joined United Trust Bank (UTB) as head of product development for mortgages and bridging.

Burnell (pictured) will be responsible for the monitoring and analysis of UTB’s existing mortgage and bridging products, as well as identifying and delivering new mortgage products and lending volume in line with UTB’s growth strategy.

Buster Tolfree, commercial director – mortgages, said: “It has been a busy and successful first three years in the mortgage sector for UTB. Simon’s appointment in this new role increases our capability to deliver innovative new products whilst continuing to ensure that our current suite remains competitive.

“Simon will work closely with Mike Walters and I as we evolve UTB’s offering both in terms of products and distribution. We are recruiting experienced industry professionals who can help us in the next exciting phase of the bank’s growth and we are investing in technology to improve the broker and customer experience.

“We have already made a significant and positive impact on the specialist mortgage sector and we look forward to even greater success in the future across a wider spectrum of mortgage lending.”