Pender joined the mortgage and business services firm in 2019 as head of client solutions, helping to develop its Mortgage Hub lending platform.More recently she was appointed managing director of the group’s lender subsidiary Elderbridge.

Before she joined Target, Pender worked at Vertex Financial Services, helping retail brands including Tesco Bank launch into the mortgage market. 

When it was acquired by Capita, Pender became head of mortgage operations, before joining Computershare in 2018.

In her new role, Pender will help teams to further develop their relationships with existing clients, as well as driving new business growth.

Pender says: “I am incredibly proud to play my part in what has been a transformational period for the business. 

“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.”

Target chief executive Peter O’Connor adds: “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.”