Nationwide appoints new head of intermediary sales as Briffitt retires
James Briffitt, Nationwide’s current head of intermediary sales and new build, is set to retire after 20 years at Nationwide.
Nationwide has announced Richard Walker as the latest appointment to its mortgage intermediaries leadership team.
As head of intermediary sales, Walker will lead sales teams across Nationwide, working closely with brokers. Driving new-build sales will also fall under his purview.
Walker brings more than 20 years of experience in the intermediary mortgage market. He joined Virgin Money in 2013 and has held a number of senior leadership roles and, most recently, led the intermediary sales teams for both Virgin Money and Clydesdale. Prior to joining Virgin Money, Walker held leadership positions at Virgin One Account, First Active and RBS.
Walker said: “I’m delighted to be taking on this role at such an important time for Nationwide. Brokers remain at the heart of the mortgage market and I’m looking forward to working with them to deepen our relationships and ensure we continue to provide the support, expertise and service they need. We have a talented team across Nationwide, and I’m excited about the opportunities ahead as we bring our strengths together.”
Damian Thompson, director of mortgage intermediaries and partnerships, said: “Richard is exceptionally well-placed to lead our intermediary sales teams and build on the established relationships we have across the market. He brings deep industry knowledge, extensive leadership experience and a strong understanding of the intermediary market, having worked closely with brokers throughout his career.
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“His appointment reflects the importance of the intermediary channel to Nationwide, and I look forward to working with him as we continue to develop our proposition and support brokers in meeting the needs of their customers.”
Thompson continued: “I would also like to thank James Briffitt for his significant contribution to Nationwide’s intermediary business. James has been an integral part of the team and has played an important role in strengthening our relationships with brokers and shaping our intermediary proposition.
“His dedication, expertise and commitment have been greatly valued by colleagues and brokers alike, and we wish him every happiness as he embarks on a well-deserved retirement.”
