Scottish based Packager Blimey! Loans has recruited a new business development manager for the North West of England.

South Manchester based Russell Walker will be tasked with developing the company’s intermediary business in the North West.

Walker brings a wealth of experience to the team, having spent time developing broker introduced business at both Standard Life and the network TenetLime.

He started his career in Financial Services as an IFA and also previously worked with a Mortgage Packager.

Alistair Ewing, director of Blimey!, said: “We are delighted to have Russell on board and are confident that with his intermediary contacts and extensive industry experience, he is ideally placed to drive our North West business forward.”

Ewing also confirmed that Blimey! has lodged its application with the FCA for full authorisation.

He said: “This certainly wasn’t a case of simply filling a form in, but now it’s done I am glad we were invited to apply early!”

And the Blimey! director predicted that regulation would have a an impact on business volumes.

Ewing said: “It will certainly affect margins, that’s for sure, but the added credibility that comes with FCA Regulation, should help to continue breaking down the barriers that currently stop some Intermediaries considering Secured Loans as a viable alternative to a remortgage or further advance.”