Pepper makes NZ BDM hire

Pepper has hired Melissa Scott, the former Bluestone BDM, as its "in-country presence", taking on the role of BDM.

The hire comes after Pepper launched its NZ product range exclusively with adviser group Astute this week. Scott is tasked with helping with the Ascenteon home loan range, and working with Astute advisers to understand the products.

Scott has prior experience with non-bank lenders and the adviser channel, having worked for Bluestone over the past year. Before that, she worked for Bank of Queensland and Bankwest in Australia. 

Pepper said in a statement: "As a BDM, Melissa (Mel) Scott will be focused on building out the white label presence across the country...She has a true passion for relationship building and prides herself on being approachable and efficient.  She enjoys helping brokers better position their customers’ needs in order to get the best outcome for the customer the first time."

Scott has already been replaced at Bluestone. The non-bank lender hired Donna Tames, a former business manager at BNZ, earlier this month.