The Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA) has appointed head of intermediary relationships at Coventry Building Society, Jonathan Stinton, as the group’s new chair.

Stinton, who has served on IMLA’s management committee since 2023, will succeed Richard Beardshaw of HSBC UK, who has completed his two-year term in the role.

IMLA also confirmed that Kate Davies will continue in her role as executive director of the association, while the body also announced the election results of its new management committee for 2026.

Joining Stinton on the committee for 2026 are head of Halifax Intermediaries & Scottish Widows Bank, Amanda Bryden; Accord Mortgages managing director, Jeremy Duncombe; head of strategic partnerships and growth at Aldermore Bank, Nicola Goldie; and business development director at Skipton Building Society, Paul Fenn.

IMLA has also confirmed two co-opted members for 2026, which are Suffolk Building Society’s head of intermediaries, Charlotte Grimshaw, and Gen H sales and distribution director, Sara Palmer.

Commenting on his appointment, Stinton said: “I’m very honoured to become chair of IMLA and to have the opportunity to lead the association at such a pivotal time for our market. Intermediaries remain crucial to good customer outcomes, and I look forward to working with Kate and the committee to ensure that lenders’ voices are represented and heard as we navigate regulatory change, economic uncertainty and the evolving needs of consumers.”

Davies added: “Congratulations to Jonathan and to all those elected or co-opted to the committee. I am enormously grateful to members who put themselves forward and to those who are stepping down after their service.

“Our incoming committee brings a strong mix of experience, insight and commitment to supporting the intermediary mortgage market. I look forward to working closely with Jonathan and the full team as we continue to represent the interests of our 53 member lenders.”

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