Fintel Services has announced the appointment of Christine Newell as head of the Financial Intermediary Broker Association (FIBA) and mortgage training officer.

She will lead the strategic direction of the trade body as it supports advisers within the specialist property finance sector, building on both its training academy and specialist property finance panel.

Newell has over 20 years’ experience within the intermediary market, at both lenders and distributors, with roles including lender and adviser relationship management, compliance training, and product development.

In the newly created position, she will work with FIBA members and lender partners both directly and through its regular committees. Her role will also encompass business and technical training opportunities within the newly launched Omni Mortgage Club, working alongside the current senior management team.

“Having spent many years supporting advisers and firms across the mortgage market, training, helping brokers develop their knowledge has always been one of the most rewarding parts of my career,” Newell said.

“FIBA already plays an important role within the specialist finance community, and I am looking forward to working closely with members, lenders and the wider team to help build on that success.

“There is a huge amount of expertise within this sector, and I am passionate about helping advisers feel confident in identifying opportunities, navigating complexity and delivering the best possible outcomes for clients.”

Newell will report to Martin Reynolds, chair of FIBA and CEO of Simplybiz Mortgages and the recently launched Omni Mortgage Club.

He added: “The team is very excited to have someone of Christine’s calibre joining. Her wealth of experience and depth of knowledge across all markets will add another dimension to the support we provide.

“Both FIBA and the specialist property finance market overall have made great strides in the past few years, and this appointment allows us to push that development forward much more quickly. Christine’s technical knowledge and love of training also align to our growth plans for the Omni Mortgage Club.”

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