Blackwell brings over 20 years of sector experience to the Equity Release Council, spanning consultancy, in-house and trade association roles across retirement, pensions and later life lending.
She was most recently group director of public relations, public affairs and internal communications at Key Group for over five years, and previously held senior communications roles at Just and the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA).
Her role at the ERC will support the industry in explaining how property wealth can address consumer and societal issues as the UK’s ageing population grows.
In addition, one of her key responsibilities will be to raise awareness of the work of the ERC and its members in setting high standards for products and consumer advice, particularly in the new Consumer Duty era.
Equity Release Council: ‘Never been more important to raise awareness’
Jim Boyd, CEO of the Equity Release Council, said: “Lee brings a wealth of experience to the Council and an expert understanding of consumer, adviser, provider and trade body perspectives that will help support the safe growth of our sector as it evolves to meet emerging consumer needs.
“It has never been more important to raise awareness of the possibilities of property wealth and the Council’s role as a standards setter underpinning safe market growth, product innovation and supporting good consumer outcomes.”
Blackwell added: “I’ve seen first-hand how the Council is dedicated to putting consumer interests at the very heart of its work, and the unique role it plays in bringing together firms across the market to improve awareness and engagement with modern equity release products.
“With property wealth holding huge potential to meet some of the challenges facing the UK’s ageing population, I am delighted to join a team whose expertise, passion and commitment is visible in everything they do. I’m looking forward to collaborating with members to help promote the benefits of specialist advice and product innovation, underpinned by Council standards.”
In December 2023, the Equity Release Council also announced that it had reappointed David Burrowes as chair for a third and final term.
