The Accord Mortgages Growth Series Podcast (Accord Mortgages)

In episode 41 of the Growth Series podcast, Iain Cunningham, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Danny Belton, Head of Lender Relationships at L&G Mortgage Club. Now going for 25 years, L&G Mortgage Club is the longest-running mortgage club in the UK. Together, Iain and Danny discuss how L&G Mortgage Club has enabled its employees to manage working from home and the constant changes seen throughout the UK lockdown.

In episode 45 of the Growth Series podcast, Richard Bassinder, Social Media Manager at YBS, talks to Chris Targett who runs Social for Brokers, a business dedicated to improving mortgage brokers’ social media presence. Together, they delve into the world of social media, discussing how mortgage brokers can use their various channels to grow their business. Chris draws on his experiences of working with mortgage broker clients to advocate an approach that balances light-hearted content with mortgage related material.

In episode #115 of the Growth Series podcast, Ian Cunningham, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Business Development Managers at Accord Mortgages, Kathy Clark and Mike Houston, to discuss the evolving role of self-serve tools in the mortgage industry.

They reflect on the challenges of 2024, including market volatility and affordability, and share their predictions for 2025. The discussion explores how self-serve solutions can complement BDM support to help brokers work more efficiently and effectively.

What to Expect:

• Key challenges brokers faced in 2024, such as affordability and market volatility
• How self-serve tools improve efficiency and free up time for brokers and BDMs
• Insights into the opportunities for brokers in 2025, including refinancing and digital innovation.

The Growth Series is a dedicated and FREE resource for mortgage brokers, containing blogs, guides, and podcasts to help you scale and grow your business. For more hints and tips on how to grow your business, you can sign up to the Growth Series here. 

In episode 85 of the Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe, Managing Director at Accord Mortgages, catches up with LDN Finance’s Chief Operating Officer Greg Cunnington and Mortgage Adviser Heather Greatorex about the latest developments in the mortgage market and what happens next.

In this episode of the Growth Series podcast’s Mortgage Mentors series, Jeremy Duncombe, Managing Director at Accord Mortgages talks with Ben Thompson, Deputy CEO at Mortgage Advice Bureau, about his career journey, leadership philosophy and insights into the evolving mortgage industry. From overcoming early setbacks to becoming a leader in financial services, Ben shares how persistence and key mentors shaped his success. 

The discussion explores current challenges for brokers, including regulatory pressures, customer demands and technology’s growing influence. Ben provides a forward-looking perspective on the role of AI and the importance of strategic partnerships in shaping a stronger, more professional mortgage sector.

With a focus on mentorship, Ben reflects on the value of helping the next generation, emphasising the importance of consistency, curiosity and integrity in building a lasting impact.

In episode 25 of the Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe, Director of Intermediaries at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Simon Lovell, Field Compliance Manager at The Mortgage Alliance. Together they discuss the Senior Management and Certification Regime.

The SMCR is part of the FCA’s drive to improve culture, governance and accountability within financial services firms. It aims to deter misconduct by improving individual accountability and awareness of conduct issues across firms.

This Podcast explores the issues that brokers need to be aware of and how they can prepare ahead of the implementation of regulation in December 2019.

In episode 90 of the Growth Series podcast, Jess Keniwell, Business Development Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Phil Anderson, Director at Phil Anderson Financial, about training and development.

In episode 58 of the Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe, Managing Director at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Charles Roe, Director of Mortgages at UK Finance, and Rob Thomas, Principle Researcher at the Intermediaries Mortgage lending Association (IMLA). In this episode, Jeremy, Charles and Rob discuss their recent reports about the state of mortgages for 2021. This episode is part two of a two-part series.

In episode 38 of the Growth Series podcast, Chris Hill, Regional Sales Manager at Accord, is joined by Dan Maskell, Director of Finance Planning Group. FPG offers award-winning mortgage and protection advice throughout the southeast and nationwide. The company prides itself on its care and commitment to expertise as well as on its focus on people. Together, Chris and Dan explore what changes Finance Planning Group and advisers have seen during Covid-19.

In episode 39 of the Growth Series podcast, Nadine Edwards, Corporate Account Manager at Accord, is joined by Paul Lewis, National Development Manager at Mansfield Building Society (MBS). Paul is also part of The Power of 8 lenders cooperative which was set up with the aim of bringing regional lenders from across the UK together to share insight, best practice, and support to brokers. Together, Nadine and Paul explore what changes Mansfield Building Society and the Power of 8 have seen during Covid-19.

In episode 18 on the Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe, Director of Intermediaries at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Jackie Bennet, Director of Mortgages at UK Finance, to discuss the UK housing market, the issues, solutions and the future.

They put their heads together to discuss the challenges facing the UK housing market, how the industry is adapting to new regulatory changes, and what the future looks like for lenders, brokers and customers.

There are major changes, such as the introduction of a New Homes Ombudsman, which UK Finance is working closely with the Home Builders Federation to set up. Changes in leaseholds also gets a mention, such as the capping of ground rents and removal of unfavourable terms such as the doubling of rent every ten years.

Jackie also discusses later life lending and the impact of changes on the Buy to Let market, for which 2018 was a poor year in terms of revenue. She also talks about major market disruptors, the impact of customer behaviour changes, and the FCA’s Mortgage Market Study.

The Growth Series is a dedicated resource that aims to help mortgage brokers grow their business using digital and communications marketing techniques. For more hints and tips on how to grow your business, you can sign up to the Growth Series for free, here.

In episode 49 of the Growth Series podcast, Nicola Alvarez, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Dom Scott, Managing Director at Alexander Hall, and Tom Davies, Sales Director at Alexander Hall. Alexander Hall is an award-winning mortgage advisory firm that has put clear and significant effort into workplace wellbeing. Together, Nicola, Dom and Tom discuss the necessity of investing in employees.

This episode explores both the way that the Alexander Hall team approaches the creation of a healthy workplace and how other firms can follow suit. 

Dom and Tom put particular emphasis on the role that Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) plays in creating an environment that truly cares and helps their employees grow. Alexander Hall is involved in many D&I initiatives in the hope of building a more inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. 

The duo also share their findings for how firms can achieve a healthy work culture, even in the face of working from home. From consistent communications, to enabling employees to maintain their work relationships, Dom and Tom have seen that connection is the greatest part of ensuring a supportive and people-focused environment.

The Growth Series is a dedicated resource that aims to help mortgage brokers grow their business using digital and communications marketing techniques. For more hints and tips on how to grow your business, you can sign up to the Growth Series for free, here.

In episode 86 of the Growth Series podcast, Chris Hill, Senior Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks with Chris Frame, Senior Director at Get Ground, about how conditions in the buy-to-let mortgage market are likely to evolve in 2023 and beyond

Meet ballet dancer turned banking figurehead, Esther Dijkstra, Managing Director for Lloyds Banking Group as she joins us on the second episode of Mortgage Mentors, hosted by Jeremy Duncombe. 

From Esther’s humble beginnings in a Dutch village to becoming a global leader in the mortgage industry, this episode will take you through the pivotal milestones in Esther’s career, exploring topics of resilience, adaptability, current market insights and more. Perhaps most interesting is the personal tone of this discussion as Esther uncovers her unique approach to leadership learned over 25 years in the industry. At the core of it all, Esther encourages authenticity, empathy and inclusivity as key pillars for future leaders. A must-listen for the most ambitious amongst us, this is a rare look into what it means to not only manage, but lead teams to excellence.   

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.

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.

In episode 61 of the Growth Series podcast, Sally Laker, Managing Director at Mortgage Intelligence is joined by Andy Millard, Corporate Account Manager at Accord. In this episode, they discuss offset mortgages and how they are often underutilised when compared to customers who go direct to a lender. They cover the benefits of offset mortgages for your clients, and dispel a few misconceptions along the way.

In episode 57 of the Growth Series podcast, Jeremey Duncombe, Managing Director at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Charles Roe, Director of Mortgages at UK Finance, and Rob Thomas, Principle Researcher at the Intermediaries Mortgage lending Association (IMLA). In this episode, Jeremy, Charles and Rob discuss their recent reports about the state of mortgages for 2021. This episode is part one of a two part series.

In episode 19 of the Growth Series, Jeremy Duncombe, Director of Intermediaries at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Mark Lofthouse, CEO at Mortgage Brain, and James Tucker, CEO at Twenty7Tec, to discuss the impact of sourcing systems on financial advisers.

Our guests in this episode have over half a century of experience within the financial and technology sectors between them.

Each guest provides great insight into how important the broker’s knowledge of the system is, drawing an interesting comparison between the systems of the past and more modern sourcing systems. Consumers’ needs are getting more complex and so there’s a greater demand for more advanced sourcing systems, generating large amounts of value to users when compared with the basic info provided by earlier versions.

In episode 29 of the Growth Series podcast, Chris Hill, Regional Sales Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Tom Horton, Managing Director of The Insurance Surgery, a specialist insurance broker. Together they discuss the importance of protection, how brokers can pitch the product to clients, the compliance regulations they need to be aware of and how the market is developing.

In episode 62 of the Growth Series podcast, Chris Hill, Senior Manager of Intermediary Distribution at Accord is joined by Liz Syms, CEO and Founder of Connect Mortgages & Connect for Intermediaries. In this episode, they provide insight into the ever-changing mortgage market and what priorities and plans for the year ahead may be of interest to brokers. 

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 episode 42 of the Growth Series podcast, Katie Pepper, External Communications Manager at Accord, is joined by Neil Bage, Director of Behavioural Insight at Be-IQ. Neil’s career has led him on a fascinating journey. Originally starting as a P.E. teacher, today Neil is a specialist in human behaviour, focusing on how people make consumer decisions and measure risk. Five years ago, he founded Be-IQ and quickly built a strong reputation in the financial services industry. Together, Neil and Katie discuss the effects of the coronavirus pandemic on human behaviour and delve into how consumers can form biased opinions which affect their behaviour at this difficult time.

In episode 76 of the Growth Series podcast, Gurpreet Chahal, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Greg Cunnington, Chief Operating Officer at LDNfinance, and David Hollingsworth, Associate Director of Communications L&C Mortgages, about recruiting and developing talent in a changing broker market.

In episode 88 of the Growth Series podcast, Adam Parker, Business Development Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Pam Brown, owner of Oxfordshire-based company Pam Brown Mortgages, about how to set up a successful business, what Pam’s learned while working in the mortgage industry, and what she wishes she’d known beforehand.

In episode 22 of the Growth Series, Nick Piper, Strategic Business Performance & Operations Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Janis Hambling, Senior Manager of Customer Solutions Delivery at Yorkshire Building Society Group. Together they discuss vulnerable customers and how YBS Group equips itself to support such customers, and look at ways of devising an effective vulnerability strategy.

In episode 31 of the Growth Series podcast, Nicola Alvarez, Corporate Account Manager - Proposition Development at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Marie Catch, Head of Broker Sales at Legal & General, and Rory Joseph, Director at JLM Mortgage Services. There has been a rise in later life lending over recent years and, with the ageing demographic, this is set to continue. Many brokers already operate in this market and others are considering entering the market and developing their proposition to address the need. The panellists discuss how brokers can adapt their toolkits to be in a position to better support their customers.

In episode 80 of the Growth Series podcast, Nicola Alvarez, Senior Manager Proposition Development at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Nicola Goldie, Head of National Accounts at Virgin Money, Lisa Martin, Development Director at TMA Mortgage Club and Atlyn Forde, Senior Manager and the Global and UK Diversity and Inclusion Committee Chair at Pepper Money, who discuss the type of work they’ve done in this area and why they wanted to be involved. 

In episode 77 of the Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe, Managing Director at Accord Mortgages, speaks to LDN Finance’s Chief Operating Officer Greg Cunnington and Mortgage Adviser Heather Greatorex about the recent turmoil in the mortgage market and what happens next.

In episode 55 of the Growth Series podcast, Nadine Edwards, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks with Sharon Trinder, Compliance Director at MAB to discuss how providing support for clients has never been more important for advisers. With unprecedented events causing new anxieties and new challenges to confront, it can be difficult for brokers to identify their clients changing needs. Nadine and Sharon consider which techniques can help brokers continue to provide a professional, empathetic and quality service.

In episode 34 of the Growth Series podcast, Nadeem Iqbal, Business Development Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Richard Hayes, co-founder and CEO of Mojo mortgages, an award-winning digital broker which won the ‘Best Mortgage Broker’ at the British bank awards in 2019. Together, Nadeem and Richard discuss how mortgage brokers can operate online, serving customers who are entirely comfortable having advice delivered remotely.

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 the second part of a two part episode on how brokers can use data to grow their business, Nicola Alvarez, Corporate Account Manager at Accord, is joined by Nathan Reilly, Head of Lender Relationships at Twenty7Tec, and Darren Scott, Insight and Performance Consultant at Accord Mortgages. Together, they discuss ways that mortgage intermediaries can use data collection and analytics to improve their service and grow their business.

The first guest is Nathan Reilly. Nathan argues that knowing your customer is at the heart of the whole mortgage process. By using data, brokers can gain a deeper understanding of who their customers are, helping them improve their service and refine their sales strategy. 

Following the coronavirus lockdown, it has never been so important to get a handle on who your customers are. Brokers have seen the way they interact with their customer base change dramatically. Nathan describes how intermediaries could use their data to refine how they interact with their customers to ensure they are doing it the best way possible as things return to normal.

In the last quarter of an hour, our second guest, Darren Scott, draws on his own experiences at Accord Mortgages to discuss how data adds value to brokers’ businesses. As well as improving targeting, Darren explains how data can help make business operations more efficient. Darren talks about how the Accord sales team uses data to ensure they can offer brokers the most relevant product range, saving brokers valuable time.

The Growth Series is a dedicated resource that aims to help mortgage brokers grow their business using digital and communications marketing techniques. For more hints and tips on how to grow your business, you can sign up to the Growth Series for free, here.

In episode 79 of the Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe, Managing Director at Accord Mortgages, speaks with Charles Roe, Director of Mortgages at UK Finance, and Rob Thomas, Principal Researcher at IMLA, about what lies ahead for the mortgage market in 2023.

In episode 74 of the Growth Series podcast, Gurpreet Chahal, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Greg Cunnington, Chief Operating Officer at LDNfinance, and Oliver Peace, Managing Director at James Leighton Financial Services, about the future of the advised broker market.

In episode 96 of this two part Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe,Managing Director at Accord Mortgages, speaks with Rob Thomas, Principal Researcher at IMLA, and Charles Roe, Director of Mortgages at UK Finance, about what’s in store for the mortgage market in 2024.

In Episode 83 of the Growth Series Podcast, Gurpreet Chahal, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Nick Piper, Senior Manager, Governance and Strategy at Accord Mortgages and David Hollingworth, Associated Director, Communications at L&C Mortgages, to discuss Consumer Duty

In episode 36 of the Growth Series podcast, Nadine Edwards, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Jane Benjamin, Director of Mortgages for Sesame Bankhall Group, the UK’s largest distributor of retail financial advice. This is the first episode in a special series exploring the ‘new normal’ for intermediaries and looking at how we are adapting to a changing world. Together they are discussing how SBG and intermediaries are responding to Covid-19.

In episode 26 of the Growth Series, Katie Pepper, Communications Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Jason Butler, head of financial education at Salary Finance, the workplace financial well-being provider. Together, they discuss the role of mortgage brokers in securing customers’ financial well-being.

They cover what financial well-being is, and its importance in the housing market; the role that mortgage brokers can play; how advisers can integrate financial well-being into the advice process; and how brokers can help customers manage the risk in their business.

In episode 51 of the Growth Series podcast, Nicola Alvarez, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Stacey Wood, National Newbuild and Surveying Relationship Manager at Sesame Bankhall Group (SBG). In her role, Stacey supports advisers by providing knowledge and insight into the newbuild world. In this episode, Stacey and Nicola take a look into the current Help-to-Buy scheme and what changes will take place when the new one comes into action. (Read more: https://bit.ly/HTBQandA)

In episode 92 of the Growth Series podcast, Yvonne Payne, Business Development Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to George Williamson of the Mortgage Advice Brokerage, about the difference technology can make to brokers.

In episode 72 of the Growth Series podcast, Gurpreet Chahal, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Christine Newell, Mortgages Technical Director at Paradigm Mortgages, and Graeme Stewart, Head of Compliance Consultancy at Paradigm Consulting, about the Consumer Duty.

In episode 87 of the Growth Series podcast, Sian Varone, Business Development Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Ken James, a Mortgage Broker at Contractor Mortgage Services, about building referral relationships with other businesses, such as estate agents, accountants and solicitors.

In episode 78 of the Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe, Managing Director at Accord Mortgages, speaks with Charles Roe, Director of Mortgages at UK Finance, and Rob Thomas, Principal Researcher at IMLA, to reflect on 2022.

In episode 73 of the Growth Series podcast, Iain Cunningham, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, discusses technology for brokers with Maria Harris, industry consultant at Digital Cat.

In episode 56 of the Growth Series podcast, Nadine Edwards, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Louisa Sedgwick, Chair of IMLA and Managing Director for Vida Home Loans, Nicola Firth, CEO and Founder of Knowledge Bank, and Niki Cooke, Head of Intermediary at Twenty7Tec.

In this episode, Nadine, Louisa, Nicola, and Niki celebrate International Women’s Day by taking a look at what it means to be a successful woman in financial services.

In episode 81 of the Growth Series podcast, Tom Simpson, Managing Director for YBS Commercial Mortgages, is joined by Norman Chambers, Managing Director of the National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (NACFB), to discuss the commercial mortgages market, the opportunities and threats faced by the sector, and what the future might look like.

In episode 63 of the Growth Series podcast, Iain Cunningham, Corporate Account Manager at Accord is joined by Pete Hunt, Partner at Hawke Financial Services. In this episode, they provide insight into what the future may look like from a broker’s point of view. They cover topics such as the value of advice and bringing in new talent in the face of what the future may hold.

In episode 97 of the Growth Series podcast, Gurpreet Chahal, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Giles Smith, Technical Director at SDL Surveying, about what’s in store for the housing market this year.

In episode 33 of the Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe, Director of Intermediary Distribution at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Kate Davies, Executive Director at the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA). They discuss how the intermediary mortgage sector will develop in the future as well as government policy, what changes would benefit the sector, and the challenges of getting on the housing ladder for first time buyers.

In episode 44 of the Growth Series podcast, Dominic Hodge, Mortgage Propositions Manager at PRIMIS and Andy Millard, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, discuss how they have adapted to the Covid-19 pandemic, both at work and at home. Together, they cover the “new normal”, outlining the challenges - and benefits - this has brought to the mortgage community.

In episode 53 of the Growth Series podcast, Iain Cunningham, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks with a select group of industry experts to discuss what they learned through 2020, a year more eventful than most, and look forward to how they plan to approach 2021. Iain is joined by Seb Murphy, Head of Finance & Brand Partnerships at JLM Mortgages, Martin Reynolds, CEO of SimplyBiz, Jane Benjamin, Director, Mortgages at Sesame Bankhall Group and Danny Belton, Head of Lender Relationships at L&G Mortgage Club.

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 99 of the Growth Series podcast, Stephanie Charman, Strategic Relationships Director at Sesame Bankhall Group, speaks to Richard Danna, Co-Founder of Tembomoney about intergenerational lending.

In episode 82 of the Growth Series podcast, Andrew Calder, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Nicola Mckenzie, Private Client Services Manager at Dunham McCarthy and Matt Brown, Head of Proposition at Primis, to discuss the protection gap in the market.

In episode 67 of the Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe, Managing Director of Accord Mortgages, asks Charles Roe, Director of Mortgages at UK Finance and Rob Thomas, Principle Researcher at the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA), to predict what lies ahead for the mortgage market in 2022.

In episode 30 of the Growth Series podcast, Nicola Alvarez, Corporate Account Manager Proposition Development at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Adrian MacDiarmid, Head of Mortgage Lender Relations at Barratt Homes. Together they discuss the opportunities and challenges that brokers face in operating in the specialist new build market and what the future holds for the sector.

In episode 32 of the Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe, Director of Intermediary Distribution at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Richard Kateley, Head of Intermediary Development at Legal & General. Many brokers consider providing protection an important part of their proposition. However, there are still many who veer away from selling protection or don’t see it as a core part of their business. We know that there is a ‘protection gap’ in the market but we also know that protection, for the most part, is sold and not bought. Which is where the challenge may lie for many.

In episode 20 of the Growth Series podcast, Nick Piper, Strategic Business Performance and Operations Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Andrew Sale, Managing Director of Wolsey Mortgage Company, to talk about the implications of growing your administration team.

Andrew describes how his business has changed dramatically since recruiting new administrative staff. He goes on to describe his unique recruitment strategy for finding new assistants and what attributes make up an ideal candidate. He also talks about the implications and costs of recruiting a new administrative team member and the potential pitfalls when it comes to developing your team as a whole.

In episode 71 of the Growth Series podcast, Nicola Alvarez, Senior Manager Mortgage Distribution - Proposition Development at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Craig Hall, Director of New Homes at LSL Financial Services, about the end of the Help to Buy scheme.

In episode 50 of the Growth Series podcast, Andy Millard, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Jeni Browne, Business Development Director from Mortgages for Business. An award-winning firm, Mortgages for Business was voted Best Buy-to-Let Mortgage Broker at the What Mortgage Awards in both 2019 and 2020. Andy and Jeni discuss the world of Buy-to-Let and its outlook in the wake of Covid-19.

In episode 24 of the Growth Series podcast, Nicola Alvarez, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages is joined by Andy Nelson, Head of Relationship Management Help to Buy, Homes England. Together they discuss how Help to Buy has affected the housing market, how brokers can play a role in helping borrowers and how the market needs to meet future challenges once the scheme comes to an end in 2023.

In episode 101 of the Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe, Managing Director of Accord Mortgages, speaks to Kevin Roberts, Managing Director of L&G Mortgage Services, and Clare Beardmore, Director of L&G’s Mortgage Club, about allyship and investing in women.

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 28 of the Growth Series podcast, Katie Pepper, Communications Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Alison Hutchinson CBE, CEO of Pennies and a Non-Executive Director of Yorkshire Building Society. Together they discuss corporate social responsibility (CSR), the self-regulating policy that ensures business contribute to societal goals of a philanthropic or charitable nature, and engage in ethically-oriented practices.

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 episode 100 of the Growth Series podcast, Kathy Clark, Business Development Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Lea Karasavvas, Managing Director at Prolific Mortgage Finance, about first-time buyers, the difficulties they face and how brokers can help this particular group.

In episode 59 of the Growth Series podcast, Mike Davies, Head of Development at Yorkshire Building Society (YBS), is joined by Haydn Thomas, Chief Commercial Officer at Cornerstone Finance Group. In this episode, Mike and Haydn discuss commercial lending, the impact of Covid-19 and where the market is headed next.

In episode 94 of the Growth Series podcast, Sian Varone, Business Development Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Hemat Natha, CEO and Advisor at Mortgage Advice Point, about mental health and why it is important for brokers.

In episode 27 of the Growth Series podcast, Katie Pepper, Communications Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Richard Bassinder, Social Media Manager at Yorkshire Building Society. Together they discuss how brokers can meet the challenges posed by the changing social media landscape and ensure their messaging contributes to wider conversations that provide real value to their audience.

In episode #112 of the Growth Series podcast, host Gurpreet Chahal sits down with Bob Singh, Director of Chess Mortgages, to discuss how TikTok has transformed his business. Known as the "Mortgage Maharaja," Bob shares how he overcame initial scepticism and leveraged TikTok to create a powerful personal brand that attracts diverse clients. From mastering the platform’s live feature to balancing personality with professionalism, Bob provides actionable insights that any broker can adopt to grow their audience and enhance lead generation.

Highlights include: 

-Bob’s reflections on the challenges of consistency
-The innovative use of live Q&A sessions to demonstrate expertise 
-The power of authenticity in building trust with potential clients. 

With stories of how TikTok has opened doors to high-value inquiries and fostered lasting client relationships, this episode is a must-listen for brokers ready to explore the platform’s potential.

In episode 35 of the Growth Series podcast, Chris Maggs, Senior Commercial Manager at Accord Buy To Let, is joined by Ying Tan, founder and Chief Executive of Dynamo, specialists in Buy To Let lending. Together, Chris and Ying explore the direction and growth of the Buy To Let market in 2020. They also consider how brokers can capitalise on developments, and how lenders and players like Dynamo can offer support to ensure those brokers go on to grow their businesses.

In episode 54 of the Growth Series podcast, Nicola Alvarez, Corporate Account Manager - Proposition Development at Accord Mortgages, speaks with two selected industry experts to discuss what they learned through 2020, a year more eventful than most, and looks forward to how they plan to approach 2021. Nicola is joined by Greg Cunnington, Director of Lender Relationships and New Homes at Alexander Hall, and David O’Leary, Policy Director at The Home Builders Federation.

In episode 23 of the Growth Series podcast, Katie Pepper, Communications Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Sam Turner, Head of Digital at ClientsFirst, to discuss conversion rate optimisation. Together they talk about how to build an effective CRO strategy, why CRO is becoming ever more important for the development of websites, and how it’s a crucial element of Growth Driven Design.

In episode 64 of the Growth Series podcast, Andy Millard, Corporate Account Manager at Accord is joined by Jeni Browne, Business Development Director at Mortgages for Business and Tim Field, owner of Pelham Properties. In this episode, they delve into the world of buy-to-let to see how brokers can ensure they’re helping their landlord clients in the best way possible, building a beneficial relationship for all involved.  

In episode 84 of the Growth Series podcast, Nicola Alvarez, Senior Manager Proposition Development at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Danny Belton, Head of Lender Relationships at L&G Mortgage Club, and Racheal Hunnisett, Green Mortgage Campaign Lead at the Green Finance Institute, to discuss green mortgages.

In episode 37 of the Growth Series podcast, Iain Cunningham, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Christine Newell, Mortgages Technical Director at Paradigm Mortgage Services. This episode continues the special series about adapting to our changing world during Covid-19. Together, Iain and Christine discuss the highs and lows of working from home during the current situation.

In episode 60 of the Growth Series podcast, Nick Piper, Strategic Business and Operations Manager at Yorkshire Building Society (YBS), is joined by Rob Sinclair, Chief Executive of the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries and Richard Ramsden, Senior Manager - YBS Information Security. In this episode, they discuss risk management and how mortgage professionals can identify fraudulent activity when completing fact finds with their clients.

In part one of a two part episode on how brokers can use data to grow their business, Nicola Alvarez, Corporate Account Manager at Accord, is joined by Sally Laker, Managing Director of Mortgage Intelligence. Since Sally joined the business when it was a start-up back in 1996, Mortgage Intelligence has grown by acquisition to become one of the country's most exciting mortgage networks. Together, Nicola and Sally discuss how brokers can use customer insight to grow their business and how a firm understanding of technology has helped the industry manage some of the difficulties that arose from the pandemic.

Sally says that brokers have “been the heroes” of the coronavirus crisis from within the mortgage industry. Brokers have really shown their flexibility and adaptability when responding to the challenges the crisis has brought. 

Nowadays, mortgage intermediaries are able to easily capture vast amounts of meaningful data. This data enables businesses to see where they are, what they can achieve and how they can do it. Sally specifically mentions how Power BI - Microsoft’s data analytics tool - has expanded the ways that Mortgage Intelligence use data to improve their service. 

During Covid, brokers’ existing client bases have risen in importance. Using data can allow brokers to see when big spikes in cessation are due in their business. By keeping tabs on this, brokers can contact the customer to make sure that they are the ‘go-to’ broker should there be a change in their circumstances.

The Growth Series is a dedicated resource that aims to help mortgage brokers grow their business using digital and communications marketing techniques. For more hints and tips on how to grow your business, you can sign up to the Growth Series for free, here.

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 40 of the Growth Series podcast, Nadine Edwards, Corporate Account Manager at Accord, is joined by Makayla Everitt, Head of Mortgages at SimplyBiz. Makayla has worked in the mortgage industry for over 20 years and has spent eight of those years at SimplyBiz. SimplyBiz is one of the largest compliance and support service providers, working with members who include over 3,700 mortgage advisers. In a time where much of the UK is working from home due to Covid-19, Nadine and Makayla discuss remote working and the unique challenges it brings.

This special episode on how brokers can network at a time where physical networking may not be possible features three guest speakers. Katie Pepper, External Communications Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Rebecca Andrew, Financial Adviser at Eleven:Eleven, Richard Bassinder, Social Media Manager at YBS, and Makayla Everitt, Head of Mortgages at SimplyBiz. Together, they draw on their own experiences to discuss how to network online.

The first guest is Rebecca Andrew. She discusses how she has built a strong network in the financial planning world through connecting online with the forward-thinking financial advice network NextGen Planners. This group provided her with great support during the coronavirus pandemic, helping her adapt to the constantly changing circumstances. She then explains how strong professional relationships are often built through a common interest outside of work, in her case running, which can be the spark to start a helpful relationship.

Our second guest is Richard Bassinder. Richard talks about ways that brokers can use social media to grow their networks. He specifically talks about how brokers can get the most out of LinkedIn and explains how brokers need to evolve to see the social network as more of an ongoing professional portfolio. As a platform for promotion, LinkedIn provides a space to do some amazing stuff, whether for recruitment or establishing yourself as a thought leader.

Makayla Everitt joins us as our final guest. She explains how SimplyBiz adapted fast to continue to support their members through a series of events since the coronavirus outbreak. This meant launching a new virtual system in just a few days, allowing the mortgage network to continue to deliver events. She explains how these kinds of events continue to provide brokers with a space to network, even when real socialising might not be possible.

The Growth Series is a dedicated resource that aims to help mortgage brokers grow their business using digital and communications marketing techniques. For more hints and tips on how to grow your business, you can sign up to the Growth Series for free, here.

In episode 65 of the Growth Series podcast, Andy Walton, Protection Proposition Director at Mortgage Advice Bureau, discusses protection for mortgages with Rob Brookes, Senior Mortgage and Protection Adviser and Director. The pair talk about what protection is, how many people take up this option and how brokers can use it to help support their customers’ needs.

In this insightful episode of the Accord Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe sits down with Charles Roe from UK Finance and Rob Thomas Rob Thomas from the Intermediate Mortgage Lenders Association to explore the UK mortgage market's performance in 2024 and the outlook for 2025. The episode begins by examining how the market surpassed expectations, achieving £242 billion in outcomes due to strong purchase lending and buy-to-let activity. As interest rates eased and economic conditions improved, the discussion shifts to how these factors influenced market resilience.

The guests provide a detailed analysis of the potential for interest rate adjustments in 2025, driven by global political influences and domestic economic trends. This episode offers a comprehensive overview of the UK mortgage market, highlighting both challenges and growth opportunities for 2025.

In episode 43 of the Growth Series podcast, Katie Pepper, Communications Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Jack Scarff, a Senior Mortgage and Protection Consultant at The Mortgage Broker. Jack works with clients who have varying and sometimes complex needs. Together, Katie and Jack discuss the current environment around mortgages and what brokers can do now to grow their business.

In episode 52 of the Growth Series podcast, Katie Pepper, Communications Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Cheryl Roulston, Mortgage Team Leader at Bespoke Financial Group. In her role, Cheryl is a mortgage and protection adviser, who also manages a team of 5 more advisers. In this episode, Cheryl and Katie take a look into the obstacles that the pandemic has created for first-time buyers, and how advisers are positioned to help.

In episode 93 of the Growth Series podcast, Iain Cunningham, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks with Chris Targett of Social for Brokers about simple ways that brokers can elevate their social media presence.

In episode 69 of the Growth Series podcast, Iain Cunningham, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, discusses how brokers can create PR opportunities with Paul Wadsworth from Accord’s PR department and Nicola Schutrups, Managing Director of The Mortgage Hut.

In episode 21 of the Growth Series podcast, Iain Cunningham, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Clayton Shipton, Managing Director at CLS Money, to discuss how CLS has embraced the digital revolution and let technology play a powerful part in how the business is moving forward. Making the leap into digital space can be scary, but Clayton explains why adopting a new tech culture can help brokers not only engage with customers, but meet their expectations.

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 episode 95 of this two part Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe,Managing Director at Accord Mortgages, speaks with Rob Thomas, Principal Researcher at IMLA, and Charles Roe, Director of Mortgages at UK Finance, about how the mortgage market performed in 2023.

In episode 89 of the Growth Series podcast, Jeremy Duncombe, Managing Director of Accord Mortgages, speaks to Charlotte Nixon, Mortgage and Protection Proposition Director at Quilter Financial Planning, about the value of advice, given the current volatility in the mortgage market.

In episode 91 of the Growth Series podcast, Nicola Alvarez, Senior Manager Proposition Development at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Nick Elston, Founder of Forging People, about how brokers can both look after their mental health and support anxious clients.

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 this episode of the Growth Series podcast, Chantelle Wilson chats with Matthew Williams, Mortgage Consultant at London Money, about how brokers can build a strong local brand.

Matt shares how hosting weekly mortgage clinics at a local coffee shop and partnering with businesses like estate agents and solicitors has helped him become a trusted figure in Chelmsford. He highlights the importance of face-to-face interactions, social media engagement, and positive client reviews in building credibility and trust.

Despite challenges like competition and stepping out of his comfort zone for video content, Matt explains how creative marketing, such as leaflets and community events, has helped his business thrive. His advice to brokers: focus on consistency, collaboration, and authentic connections to succeed in your local market.

In episode 75 of the Growth Series podcast, Gurpreet Chahal, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Christine Newell, Mortgages Technical Director at Paradigm Mortgages, and Graeme Stewart, Head of Compliance Consultancy at Paradigm Consulting, about what the Consumer Duty means for brokers.

In episode 98 of the Growth Series podcast, Gurpreet Chahal, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Robert Sinclair, Chief Executive of the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries (AMI), and Nick Piper, Senior Manager, Governance and Strategy at Accord Mortgages, to discuss the implementation and ongoing impact of Consumer Duty.

In episode 70 of the Growth Series podcast, Andrew Calder, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, speaks to Rich Merrett, Head of Strategic Development at Simply Biz about the future of the buy-to-let market.