She will report to HTB sales director for specialist mortgages and bridging finance Andrea Glasgow.

Priest will look after her own portfolio of brokers across the region alongside Annie Crust, who continues to manage her own network.

Priest joins from Birmingham Bank, where she was national account manager, following senior roles at Foundation Home Loans, The Mortgage Lender and Barclays.

With more than 35 years’ experience across specialist and mainstream lending, she brings a strong network of broker relationships and a deep understanding of how to structure deals.

Priest says: “I’ve worked with brokers across the Midlands for many years, and you quickly learn what really matters: honest conversations, clear updates and a lender who stays close to every case.

“That’s what sets HTB apart. You can pick up the phone to people who know your deal and will work with you to find a solution.

“I’m excited to join the team, to work alongside Annie, and to keep building the strong partnerships HTB has across the region.”

Glasgow says: “The Midlands has been one of our strongest regions and that’s down to the fantastic work Annie has done in building broker relationships and setting such high standards of service.

“Paula’s appointment adds even more depth to the team, with each focusing on their own network of brokers to make sure we’re supporting demand right across the region.

“She’s hugely well respected in the market and brings exactly the kind of experience, energy and insight that make a real difference on complex cases.

“I’m thrilled to have her on board.”