Nationwide appoints new head of intermediary sales

Nationwide has appointed Richard Walker as head of intermediary sales and new build.

He will replace James Briffitt, who is retiring after nearly 20 years of service at Nationwide.

Richard will lead the intermediary sales teams across Nationwide, helping shape its engagement with intermediaries and working closely with brokers. He will also be responsible for driving forward new build sales activity across Nationwide.

Richard 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, has led the intermediary sales teams for both Virgin Money and Clydesdale. Prior to joining Virgin Money, Richard held leadership positions at Virgin One Account, First Active and RBS.

Richard Walker commented: “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, Nationwide’s 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. 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.

“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.”