How many brokers do you see in a week?
In a typical week the number of appointments can range from 12-14. Being in the heart of the City of London there is a varied mix of intermediary firms; some one man bands to some very large firms.
What issues come up time and time again?
Personally I dont like the word “issues” I like to call think of them as challenges.
A common challenge is when I receive a call asking if we can help a client who has been let down elsewhere or is in a contract race and requires an offer as soon as possible. This is an area where I feel Halifax excels – we’re really committed to helping Britain prosper. It’s all about clear and concise communication from day one between all parties involved. I think the current record is two hours from application to offer.
Favourite part of your job?
I have worked for Halifax Intermediaries covering various roles for 14 years now; working for one of the largest mortgage providers in the UK is something I’m very proud of. I enjoy helping my intermediary partners learn and develop on everything Halifax Intermediaries has to offer and at the same time help them grow their own and our business. Supporting areas such as mortgage acquisition, product transfers and general insurance means this development continues be to very high on all our agendas to ensure we continue to receive quality business.
Biggest challenge?
Can I say my local train provider getting me into the city? On a serious note I’m sure most BDMs would agree with me when I say we want to be able to see as many people as possible, however there are only a certain number of hours in a day! It’s vital to get the balance right between these visits and the other important areas a BDM needs to deal with on a daily basis.
Strangest question you’ve ever been asked?
Probably one of the strangest enquiries was when I was asked if I would consider a mortgage for a previous ex-soldier who is now self-employed, fighting Somali pirates overseas on a ship in the middle of the ocean. He received cash in hand with no salary slips, did not pay tax, had no fixed address and resided in the UK as and when he needed to; unfortunately we were unable to help on that occasion.
What do you wish brokers understood about your job?
As a BDM I do not have the magic offer button. Sometimes we need to say no to protect the bank and a broker’s interests. On these rare occasions there will always be a valid reason not to lend and where possible we will share the reason with the adviser to help them and their client understand so an alternative lender can be sourced.
Last film you saw at the cinema?
That would have been The Wolf of Wall Street, brilliant film.
Least favourite sport?
This could cause raise a few eyebrows, however, it’s Rugby, I just don’t get it!
Current mobile phone?
Samsung S5.
Favourite biscuit?
Chocolate Hobnob all the way.
