The new hire has more than 20 years of experience across banks and non-bank lenders.
Bluestone Home Loans has named Paul Bakker as head of strategic partnerships in a move the non-bank lender said reinforced its commitment to brokers.
Having started in the position on 7 October, Bakker will focus on strengthening aggregator partnerships, improving education initiatives, and capitalising on new market opportunities.
He will also work closely with Bluestone’s leadership and distribution teams to deepen aggregator and white label relationships.
Bakker has over 20 years’ experience across banks and non-bank lenders. He started his career at Westpac in 2006, serving as a state general manager for NSW and the ACT, third-party distribution.
He later rose to spend more than seven years as national manager of strategic partnerships at the major.
Bakker most recently held the role of national manager for sales and strategic partnerships at mortgage lender Better Choice Home Loans.
Tony MacRae, Bluestone chief commercial officer, said the appointment reflected a deliberate step in the specialist lender’s growth plans.
“Paul brings deep expertise and long-standing aggregator relationships, with a proven record of driving growth through collaboration and insight. His leadership will help us elevate the broker experience and accelerate Bluestone’s growth in the non-bank space,” he said.
“This role embodies that commitment, ensuring our aggregator partners continue to receive best-in-market support while we deliver mutual growth and shared value.”
Bakker said he was drawn to Bluestone’s product suite and partnership approach.
“I’ve seen firsthand how quickly Bluestone has grown in the third-party market over the last two years,” he said.
“Bluestone Home Loans is well-known in the market for its dependable service, commonsense approach to credit assessment, and customer-centric approach, giving brokers confidence in working with a company that values integrity.
“My top priority is to work collaboratively with our partners to strengthen education, streamline integration and uncover new avenues for product innovation. Our goal is to make it easier than ever for brokers to do business with Bluestone.”
Bluestone has announced several changes in the second half of 2025 to its staffing and product range.
Earlier this month, it launched a new range of expat loans for Australians who are living and working abroad.
The lender also made a series of appointments and promotions in a bid to grow its broker support teams.
These moves come off the back of a brand refresh in February to mark a quarter of a century in the non-bank lending space.
