HTB reveals new-look leadership team across its property divisions

15 April 2024

Fast growing specialist lender, Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB), has today announced two senior appointments to underpin the bank's position as the go-to lender throughout the entire residential investment lifecycle.

Alex Upton becomes Managing Director, Specialist Mortgages and will be succeeded as Managing Director, Development Finance by Neil Leitch who is currently Commercial Director of that division. HTB’s bridging division continues under the leadership of Director, Jamie Jolly.

Alex Upton is one of HTB’s most seasoned leaders, having joined the bank in 2018. During her tenure as leader of the Development Finance division, Alex transformed the operation and recruited over 40 talented specialists whilst winning a multitude of awards.

Alex Upton, Managing Director of Specialist Mortgages, said she was excited by the new opportunity:

"I am proud to leave the Development Finance division in great shape – the new team is brimming with talent and capability.

“But I'm thrilled to be swapping my comfy steel toecaps for my blister inducing heels as I return to my roots in Specialist Mortgages to take HTB’s biggest business to the next level. Close broker relationships and consistent, first class service are the foundations of the division’s current and future strategy. No change there.”

Neil Leitch, as he assumes his new role as leader of the Development Finance business, is a widely recognised and established figure within the market with decades of experience behind him. His deep technical knowledge and astute commercial judgement commands the respect of colleagues and clients alike.

Neil Leitch, Managing Director of Development Finance, thanked the team:

"I’m stepping in to lead a department that’s already in an excellent position. It’s been a pleasure working with Alex and I’m really looking forward to taking the helm in Development Finance as we continue to support a broad range of developers to build more much needed homes across England & Wales. HTB is uniquely positioned to deliver genuinely joined up lifecycle lending across Development Finance, Bridging and Specialist Mortgages.”

Commenting on these important new appointments, Charles McDowell, Chief Commercial Officer said:

“Talent is HTB’s currency. Alex and Neil’s commitment to the bank has been fundamental to our rapid growth and their continued close collaboration will underpin HTB’s formula for success - to put both brokers and borrowers at the heart of everything we do.”