UTB promotes Bradley Illman to Head of Sales – Bridging

United Trust Bank (UTB) has promoted long-standing bridging specialist Bradley Illman to Head of Sales – Bridging.

Illman, who joined the Bank in 2012 as an underwriter, has played a key role in shaping UTB’s bridging operations over the past decade. He helped establish the Bank’s Bridging Internal Sales Team and most recently served as Key Account Manager for Bridging, where his dual background in underwriting and internal sales enabled him to support brokers with swift decisions and guidance on more complex cases.

In his new role, Illman will report to Andrew Ferguson, Commercial Director of Mortgages, BTL & Bridging, and will lead UTB’s Bridging Sales team during a period of significant investment in technology and process improvements. These enhancements – set to launch later this year – aim to accelerate application-to-completion journeys for brokers and support the Bank’s ambitions for growth. UTB is also seeking to expand its presence in the non-regulated bridging market and increase opportunities to transition clients exiting refurbishment loans into buy-to-let mortgages.

Ferguson welcomed the appointment, describing 2026 as a pivotal year for UTB’s bridging division. “2026 is going to be an exciting year for UTB Bridging with several transformative projects underway to improve service to brokers and increase our capacity for growth. I am delighted that Brad has stepped up to take on this new sales role which will be pivotal in delivering the ambitious targets we’ve set ourselves. It’s always particularly pleasing to promote talent from within the Bank.”

Illman said he was excited to help drive the next phase of UTB’s expansion. “There’s a huge opportunity for UTB to build upon its reputation in the Bridging market. I’m looking forward to leading the Sales team as we introduce new technology and processes which will transform the way brokers transact with UTB, delivering much faster responses, faster completions and more successful outcomes for brokers and their clients.”