We spoke to some of our first winners to reflect on their career, achievements and industry changes since then.
Here we speak to Mark Harris, chief executive of Howden Private Clients and recipient of the Broker Award.
What did it mean to win at the inaugural British Mortgage Awards?
It was a tremendous honour to win at the inaugural British Mortgage Awards. It felt like an acknowledgement of the fantastic business that I had the pleasure of leading then and indeed still do now, all these many years later.
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Looking back, what was the intermediary mortgage market like in 2006 compared to today?
Back in 2006, the intermediary mortgage market was booming. Since then, there have been three huge changes that have impacted the industry – the global financial crisis, the pandemic and Liz Truss. The role of the mortgage adviser is faster-moving and more tech-enabled now than then, while there is greater choice for consumers. Today’s broker needs to be far more organised and aware of deadlines, particularly with the volatility in interest rates.
How important is it for the industry to continue recognising excellence and innovation?
It is very important for the industry to recognise excellence and innovation via such awards, provided the judging remains impartial at all times.
What are you most proud of professionally when you look back over the past two decades?
Looking back, on a professional level, I am most proud of guiding SPF through the financial crisis, a subsequent management buyout, partial sale to private equity and the eventual sale to Howden, our current owner.
What advice would you give to someone entering the intermediary mortgage market today?
If someone is entering the intermediary mortgage market today, my advice would be to remember that diversification is key. It’s very hard for a one-trick pony. Tech will continue to transform the industry, but independent advice will remain key, particularly around the specialist areas.
