UTB appoints two bridging underwriters in Manchester

United Trust Bank (UTB) has announced the permanent appointment of two experienced bridging underwriters to its recently opened Manchester office, marking another step in the Bank’s commitment to expanding its bridging finance operations in the North of England.

Hayley Evans has joined the team as Senior Bridging Underwriter, bringing with her over a decade of experience across the property finance, banking, and intermediary sectors. Her previous roles include tenures at the Co-operative Bank, Embrace Financial Services, TSB Bank, and most recently, Together. Notably, Evans was named Underwriter of the Year at the Women’s Recognition Awards 2024, and is recognised for her expertise in regulated bridging.

Joining her is Harvey Wood, who steps into the role of Bridging Underwriter. Wood has a strong background in both bridging and development finance, having worked at Together, SDKA, and SoMo. His career has seen him manage complex property finance transactions across residential, commercial, and mixed-use sectors, with specialist knowledge in property conversions, HMO developments, and structured tranche funding.

Both underwriters will operate permanently from UTB’s new premises in Hardman Square, located in the heart of Manchester’s business district. The Manchester office, which opened earlier this year, is home to several of UTB’s key divisions, including Bridging, Mortgages, Asset Finance, and Structured Property Finance. It serves as a regional hub for the Bank’s engagement with brokers and clients across the North and West Midlands.

Sundeep Patel, Director of Bridging at United Trust Bank, commented: “Manchester has proven to be an ideal location for our satellite office, and I am delighted that Hayley and Harvey have become Bridging’s first hires to be permanently based there. Both have considerable local experience and excellent relationships with bridging brokers operating in the region. Having ‘boots on the ground’ is delivering tangible results with improved business and service levels.”

Patel also pointed to recent government announcements regarding investment in Northern and Midlands transport infrastructure as a timely boost to the region’s property market.

“The Government’s recent announcement of significant investment in transport infrastructure across the North and the Midlands will further support the regeneration of the area, and we are keen to help borrowers seize the opportunities this initiative will bring,” he added.