Merrey joins with 25 years of experience in financial services and previously worked as a business development manager (BDM) for Scottish Building Society.

Before this, she held similar roles at Furness Building Society, Leeds Building Society and Virgin Money.

In her new role, Merrey will look after the North East, Yorkshire and Scotland. One of her tasks will be to grow the lender’s presence in Scotland following its launch into the country in March.

The lender has also promoted Kayleigh Tuvey, previously a telephone BDM for buy-to-let (BTL) and bridging, to the role of telephone business development sales manager for residential.

The lender says it plans to announce several other hires and criteria changes throughout the second half of the year.

West One Loans head of intermediary sales and distribution Paul Huxter says: “Helen has a wealth of experience in the intermediary market and is someone who has the skills and personality to make a real difference to our business right from the off. So, we’re delighted to have her on board.”

“I’m also thrilled for Kayleigh, who has proven that she has the knowledge, dedication and talent to make the step up to internal sales manager. I have no doubt she will be excellent in her new role.”