Colin Bell has become managing director of commercial mortgages at Hampshire Trust Bank.
He has been tasked with setting up and managing the commercial, buy-to-let and specialist short-term property lending division of the bank.
Bell (pictured) was previously product and new business director (group) at OneSavings Bank plc, where he was responsible for product and sales for property lending at the Kent Reliance, InterBay Commercial and Prestige brands.
In addition, Anna Lewis has been appointed as head of production.
Mark Sismey-Durrant, CEO at Hampshire Trust Bank, said: “We believe there are a wealth of opportunities available to us in the commercial and buy-to-let mortgage sectors. As a new challenger bank, we do not have the legacy issues experienced by some of the older banks, we are able to offer the flexible financing solutions and specialist expertise that British businesses and buy-to-let investors need in order to grow.
“Key to Hampshire Trust Bank’s successful progress is its specialist staff. We are delighted to welcome Colin and Anna on board and are looking forward to continuing to grow the commercial mortgage team over the coming year and beyond. We are building a bank to be proud of. A bank that is valued by our customers for its outstanding service, lasting relationships, integrity and expertise.”
Bell said: “I am delighted to be joining HTB to set up and run the commercial mortgage division at such an exciting time for the bank. The SME lending market remains underserved by true specialist lenders, which made this an opportunity I relished. I found the business culture, attitude and approach an ideal fit and am looking forward to developing the products, teams and distribution channels to ensure we have a successful launch and provide a positive contribution to the already successful bank.”
Lewis, who has worked in the mortgage sector for 13 years, also joins Hampshire Trust Bank from InterBay Commercial, where she was sales manager.
“This is a great time to join and be a part of a successful specialist bank, with the opportunity to set up and grow the commercial and buy-to-let department,” she said.
“I am also delighted to be back working alongside Colin, who I have worked with for many years. We are both looking forward to the challenge and are ready to hit the ground running.”