Smith joins from Hinckley & Rugby Building Society, where she served for 15 years, rising to national account manager after starting at the lender as a mortgages services assistant.

Harpenden director of operations Raj Bains says: “Emily’s appointment illustrates our commitment to strengthening existing broker relationships and building additional, strong connections with the intermediary community.

“She brings considerable experience and knowledge to the role having worked in the building society sector throughout her career. Her appointment is just one example of how we are enhancing our service to brokers.”

And Smith adds: “I’m excited to be joining Harpenden Building Society. In what is a constantly changing and complex housing market there are significant opportunities for brokers to grow their businesses by working with an award winning specialist lender.

“I look forward to optimising commercial opportunities for both existing brokers and new partners too.”