Darlington Building Society has strengthened its underwriting expertise and broker support following the appointment of Leanne Arundell as its new head of underwriting.
Leanne, who joined the Society in March 2023, takes on the role after being promoted from lending specialist manager, a position she held from February 2025.
Having originally joined Darlington as a senior underwriter, Leanne has developed an in-depth understanding of the Society’s mortgage criteria and lending approach, with experience spanning both frontline underwriting and the management of more complex mortgage applications.
In her new role, Leanne will oversee the Society’s underwriting function, supporting consistent lending decisions and ensuring brokers continue to benefit from a practical, case-by-case approach to mortgage applications.
A key focus will be maintaining close working relationships between the underwriting and mortgage distribution teams, helping brokers understand lending requirements and ensuring applications requiring additional consideration can be discussed with experienced decision-makers.
Chris Blewitt, head of mortgage distribution at Darlington Building Society, said: “One of the frustrations we hear from brokers is that underwriting can sometimes feel like a process happening behind closed doors. When a case falls outside the most straightforward lending scenarios, they need to understand what is possible, what information is required and, importantly, why a particular decision has been made.
“Leanne understands that underwriting is about much more than assessing risk against a set of criteria. It’s about applying sound judgement and recognising when a conversation can make the difference between an application progressing and a broker having to start again.
“Having worked her way through the underwriting function at Darlington, she knows our approach and fully understands the expectations of the brokers who place business with us.”
Leanne Arundell commented: “I’ve always believed that good underwriting starts with understanding the application rather than simply looking for reasons why it might not fit. Criteria are there for good reason, but there will always be cases where the circumstances need further consideration, and that’s where experience and judgement become particularly important.
“From a broker’s perspective, I think one of the most valuable things an underwriting team can offer is clarity. Even when a case is complicated, brokers should know what we need from them and have the reassurance that the information they provide is being properly considered.
“Having spent the past few years working across different roles within Darlington’s lending team, I’ve seen how much difference it makes when underwriters and brokers work together. That’s something I want to build on in this role, while ensuring we continue to make responsible lending decisions that deliver good outcomes for borrowers.”
