The Accord Mortgages Growth Series Podcast

In episode #111 of the Growth Series podcast, Natalie Pater, Regional Account Manager at PMS is joined by Darren Polson, Head of Mortgage Operations at Aberdein Considine to discuss the secrets to crafting training plans that not only boost business growth but also nurture personal development in your team.

Darren breaks down the essential elements of an effective training plan, from a personalised induction process to an interim development period with targeted support and the vital role of ongoing mentorship. 

Discover how these components work together to build confident, capable mortgage brokers ready to excel in their roles. With innovative methods like online learning and bi-weekly development slots, Darren illustrates how to maintain high levels of engagement while accommodating flexible work structures. 

Whether you aim to enhance customer outcomes, improve staff retention or foster career progression, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help your mortgage firm thrive.

In episode #110 of the Growth Series podcast, Charlotte Bates and Natalie Wilcox, Directors of BatesWilcox, join our host Adam Parker, Accord BDM, to discuss how they’ve built a thriving mortgage broker firm by leveraging the power of apprenticeships and integrating fresh talent into their business by collaborating with companies that specialise in financial services apprenticeships.

Charlotte and Natalie share their innovative approach, emphasising the value of personality and communication skills over formal qualifications and revealing how this strategy has opened doors to various roles including marketing and HR.

They discuss the importance of investing in staff development and recognising potential, even from outside the industry, to create a loyal and well-rounded team. Don’t miss their invaluable advice on nurturing talent and promoting from within to build a cohesive and dedicated workforce.

In episode 109 of the Growth Series podcast, Charlotte Bates and Natalie Wilcox, Directors of BatesWilcox, join our host Adam Parker, Accord BDM, to discuss effective recruitment strategies for brokers. The discussion covers how to navigate the competitive job market, defining recruitment USPs and leveraging technology to streamline the hiring process. Both brokers lean on their extensive experience to offer insights into retention strategies and the importance of creating a positive work environment to keep top talent engaged.

In episode 108 of the Growth Series podcast, Gurpreet Chahal, Corporate Account Manager at Accord speaks with Paul Sherman, Mortgage Proposition Director at the Openwork Partnership, who shares insights on supporting vulnerable customers in the mortgage sector. The conversation explores how brokers can identify and address client needs, recognise various types of vulnerabilities, and build trust with clients. Plus, Paul discusses the comprehensive training and support initiatives by the Openwork Partnership, including establishing power of attorney and simplifying vulnerability reporting, to better serve vulnerable clients and enhance business processes.

In this episode of the Growth Series podcast, Corporate Account Manager Gurpreet Chahal is joined by Giles Smith, Technical Director at SDL Surveying and Simon Jackson, CEO at SDL Surveying, to discuss the critical role brokers play in supporting clients to retrofit homes, aiding the UK's journey towards net zero carbon emissions. 

They explore the complexities of housing contributions to carbon emissions, the need for large-scale retrofitting, the challenges presented by the UK’s old housing stock and the importance of education and skilled tradespeople. The conversation also covers the role of green finance, grants and the necessity for a clear governmental directive to support the retrofit industry, providing brokers with practical advice on how to navigate these challenges and support clients effectively.

Welcome to another episode of Accord Mortgages Growth Series podcast, in episode #106 Gurpreet is joined by industry colleagues Paul Purewal from Coventry Building Society and John Samra from Just Mortgages. The discussion centres around the significance of names, personal identity and cultural heritage in the context of South Asian Heritage Month. 

Paul and John share their personal stories about using more westernised names to fit in and how this has impacted their professional lives. They explore the evolving perceptions of non-western names in society and the importance of embracing one's heritage. 

The episode aims to shed light on the experiences, challenges, and discussions around diversity, equity and inclusion within the mortgage industry. Tune in for insightful dialogue and personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of being proud of one's identity and name.

In this episode of the Accord Mortgages Growth Series podcast, host Gurpreet Chahal, Corporate Account Manager at Accord discusses the evolving mortgage market with Richard Howes, Director of Mortgages at Paradigm Mortgage Services, and Anthony Rose, CEO at LDN Finance. 

They explore significant changes in the industry, from the impacts of COVID-19 and economic turmoil to fluctuating interest rates and the crucial role of brokers in providing tailored advice. The discussion covers strategies for brokers to adapt and thrive, the importance of considering clients' overall financial picture, the potential of technology and AI in assisting brokers and best practices for staying informed about industry trends. 

The episode highlights the persistent value of broker-client relationships amidst technological advancements and regulatory changes.

In the latest Accord Mortgages Growth Series podcast, Natalie Pater, Regional Key Account Manager for PMS interviews Jamie Lewis, Managing Director at Affinity Mortgages and Tim Atkinson, Managing Director at Mortgage Required. They discuss the evolution of their businesses, their individual journeys in the mortgage industry and the strategies they used to attract and retain talent while maintaining a diverse and inclusive work environment.

The conversation also touches on the challenges of transitioning from advising clients to leadership roles, the importance of staying connected to industry trends and how technology supports their operations. Both guests offer valuable lessons in leadership and team management, emphasising trust, empathy and the significance of a supportive work culture.

In episode 103 of the Growth Series podcast, Nicola Alvarez, Senior Manager Proposition Development at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Megha Srivastava, National Account Manager at Twenty7Tec, Rachel Edwards, Senior Policy Advisor at the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries, and Dom Scott, Managing Director at Lifetime Connect, about the benefits of mentoring.

In episode 102 of the Growth Series podcast, Mike Houston, Business Development Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Rob Chart, Mortgage and Protection Advisor at The Finance Planning Group, about client contact strategies and why they are so important.