Ian Andrew, formerly head of sales and jointly responsible for the intermediary division with Howard, will assume sole charge with immediate affect as managing director of group intermediary sales.
Howard and Andrew will work together until the end of the year to transfer over responsibilities.
Howard said that his departure was “very amicable” and he currently has no specific plans.
He said: “I won’t leave until the end of the year, so it gives me some time to start exploring opportunities and I am keen to stay in the property industry, although not specifically mortgages.
“I have over 30 years experience, which I think is valuable and I am looking to continue to use it. I am very excited about the prospects. I might be moving on, but I’m not disappearing.”
Howard joined Portman Building Society in 2002, before it merged with Nationwide in 2007, and has been involved in the intermediary market since 1989.
He won the British Mortgage Awards Lifetime Achievement Award in June this year.
Nationwide said the review of the intermediary business was part of its “ongoing focus on streamlining business operations”.
Andrew said: “Nationwide remains committed to the intermediary market. We have a very strong BDM sales force and corporate account team and look forward to further strengthening the excellent relationships we have with our intermediary partners.”
Matthew Wyles, executive director of group distribution at Nationwide, said: “Paul has done a tremendous job for Nationwide and leaves with our warmest best wishes for the future.”
