Lankey initially joined Afin as Director of Credit during its launch phase last year. He then took on the role of National Sales Director at the start of this year, taking on responsibility for the sales team as it expanded with the appointment of a number of new BDMs.

This latest promotion means Lankey will help shape Afin as it reinforces its presence in the marketplace supporting hard-working borrowers let down by mainstream banks because they do not fit their restrictive lending criteria, such as the self-employed, workers with multiple incomes, qualified professionals, the high-net-worth and foreign nationals working in the UK.

Commenting on his appointment Lankey said: “Afin Bank is needed more now than ever as the bigger providers become even more restrictive with their affordability criteria, leaving many customers struggling to find a lender that understands their circumstances and can offer them the kind of mortgage they need.

“This is the perfect opportunity to bring all my experience and expertise together to help brokers support their clients by offering the right mortgage products, personalised underwriting and high standards of customer service.”

Lankey has over 35 years’ experience in credit, operations and commercial roles in the mortgage industry, particularly in the intermediary sector. He has been involved in the start-up or early stages of six banks and lenders, including Aldermore, and served as Chief Executive of the NACFB.