Thibaut (pictured) will take up the position at the end of the year to replace David Thomas who is stepping down after two years.
Thibaut was group managing director of wealth advisory firm Lifetime Group for 11 years. He was then appointed chief executive of 360Dotnet and announced his retirement in 2019 after four years at the post.
He joined the board of the SMP in 2019.
Thomas, who is also joint managing partner of financial advice firm Chadney Bulgin, said: “I was honoured to be invited to take the inaugural chair of the Society of Mortgage Professionals some two years ago, during which time we have created a clear structure while steering through a pandemic.
“I’m delighted to pass the chair to Carlos, who I know will drive the society further forward.”
Thibaut said: “Following the illustrious David Thomas as chair of the Society of Mortgage Professionals will be a considerable challenge but one that I’m looking forward to. We have an important role to play in supporting and promoting professionalism. Championing the benefits of seeking out professional advice must be at the heart of what we do.
“We have an extremely talented, experienced and skilled board and I am genuinely excited about the opportunities for advisers, professional advice and the society over the coming years.”
Liz Syms is chief executive of Connect Mortgages and Connect for Intermediaries. The latter supports over 250 mortgage advisers who operate in the mainstream and specialist markets.
Syms said: “Helping advisers to increase their skills and professionalism while championing the consumer is the key aim and differentiator of the Society of Mortgage Professionals.
“I am really pleased to be part of the board and I am looking forward as the vice chair to supporting Carlos, to increase the profile of the good work that the society does.”
