NRG Insights - NRG Resourcing

20Nov

Building an International Lending Business with Matt Watson

Today’s wealthy are no longer confined to one country.

For lenders, that means thinking globally.

In this week’s NRG Insights newsletter, I’m joined by Matt Watson , CEO of Tenn, to discover what it takes to build a global lending business, serving high-value clients across borders.

If you’re a lender, broker, or entrepreneur looking to scale your business beyond the UK, this is for you. Learn how to serve to international clients, overcome cross-border challenges, and move into the global market.

Matt’s strategies, lessons, and ideas are coming up.

Including…

👉 The full video episode AND audio version from Spotify

👉 How Matt pivoted from investments to launching a global lending business

👉 Lessons from financial crisis’ and how they shaped his strategy

👉 Insights on serving high-net-worth clients with concierge-style service

👉 The bold moves behind building Tenn Capital without initial funding

👉 Access to the Specialist Lending Salary Guide

But first…

Who is Matt Watson?

Matt Watson is the CEO of Tenn Capital, a specialist lender serving high-value real estate clients across the globe.

With over 15 years of experience in financial services, Matt has built a career on scaling high-growth startups and complex markets.

A Chartered Fellow of the Securities Institute and a Member of the Institute of Directors, Matt’s expertise spans investments, lending, and business leadership.

His focus on innovation, client service, and adaptability has made Tenn Capital a standout in international lending.

5 Key Takeaways from Matt Watson

Make Bold decisions. Starting Tenn Capital without funding was a risk, but clear vision and determination made it possible. Bold decisions are what set you apart.
Client relationships are everything. Serving high-net-worth clients requires attention to detail, understanding their unique needs, and providing top-tier, concierge-style service to build trust and loyalty.
Crisis creates opportunity. Financial crisis’ taught Matt to see challenges as opportunities. Careful financial decisions during tough times can set you up for long-term success.
Go where the market goes. Successful lending means adapting to client needs, not imposing your own. With wealth becoming increasingly global, cross-border lending is the future in today’s connected world. Meeting clients where they want to invest is key to staying relevant.
Scaling requires balance. Focusing on both client relationships and asset quality ensures credibility and consistency as you grow. A solid foundation is key to sustainable expansion.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
YouTube and Spotify just search NRG-Resourcing and subscribe or follow to be the first to access.

We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

25Sep

Mastering Leadership in Lending with Richard Deacon

What does it take to lead in specialist lending?

In this edition of NRG Insights, I’m joined by Richard Deacon, MD of Sales at Octane Capital, who shares his straightforward approach to leadership in lending.

He discusses how to build strong teams, develop meaningful relationships, and stay ahead in a competitive market. His advice is packed with practical insights for anyone working in specialist lending.

Here’s what’s coming up…

👉 Watch the full video on YouTube or listen to the audio version on Spotify

👉 5 key takeaways from Richard’s leadership experience in specialist lending

👉 Learn why Richard believes hiring for potential and personality is more effective than focusing on skills

👉 Discover how technology and AI are shaping the future of lending, but why human judgment is still essential

Who is Richard Deacon?

Richard Deacon is the Managing Director of Sales at Octane Capital .

With over 20 years of experience in the specialist lending industry, his career spans roles at HFC Bank, Santander, Personal Touch Packaging, and Masthaven Bank.

Richard’s success is built on his belief that “people buy from people,” a mantra that’s earned him recognition, including the 2017 Bridging & Commercial “Personality of the Year” award.

When he’s not leading in the lending world, you’ll find him on the golf course, continuing to expand his network while representing Octane.

5 Key Leadership Lessons from Richard Deacon

Hire for potential and personality, not just skills. Richard believes that finding people with the right attitude and drive is more important than focusing solely on their technical skills.
Build relationships that last. Successful leadership comes from genuine connections. Richard’s approach to business is built on the belief that people buy from people.
Balance technology with human judgment. While technology plays a role in lending, Richard emphasises that human judgment is still essential, especially in making key decisions.
Adapt to market shifts by educating your team and clients. Richard stresses the importance of keeping everyone informed and updated, ensuring the team and clients understand what’s happening in lending.
Motivate through understanding, not just incentives. Financial rewards matter, but Richard focuses on understanding individual motivations to build a driven and successful team.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
YouTube and Spotify just search NRG-Resourcing and subscribe or follow to be the first to access.

We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

04Sep

The Path to Financial Leadership with Scott Marshall

The finance industry is tough, especially when you’re starting out. Scott Marshall, founder of Roma Finance, knows this better than most. His journey from engineer to finance leader shows how grit and smart decisions can pay off.

In this episode, Marcus talks to Scott about his transition into finance, the struggles of building Roma Finance, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

If you’re facing challenges in growing a business, this episode has practical insights that can help.

Who is Scott Marshall?
Scott Marshall founded Roma Finance 15 years ago, in the middle of one of the toughest UK recessions.

Roma Finance is a specialist lender, focused on bridging and development loans for landlords and property developers. They work with both residential and commercial properties, and Scott’s ‘borrower first’ approach has been key to their growth.

Today, Roma Finance is backed by some of the UK’s leading banks and building societies.

5 Key Lessons From Scott Marshall

Unexpected career shifts can lead to success.
Scott didn’t start in finance—he began in engineering. A corporate finance role came later, proving that pivoting careers can pay off if you find what drives you.
Persistence through hard times is key.
Roma Finance began during a recession, and Scott juggled a full-time IT job while building it. The early days were a grind, but sticking with it through challenges made the difference.
Face-to-face meetings matter.
Scott believed in meeting potential borrowers in person to fully understand their needs. This level of service helped Roma Finance stand out in a competitive industry.
Build the right team.
Scott’s biggest breakthrough came when he hired Daniel Hill as the second employee. Hiring people who shared his vision and work ethic was vital to scaling the business.
Culture is everything.
Scott learned the hard way that a company’s culture must align with its values. Ensuring the right cultural fit at Roma Finance has kept the company on track as it grows.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
YouTube and Spotify just search NRG-Resourcing and subscribe or follow to be the first to access.

We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

07Aug

Leading Women in Finance [Special]

Want to learn how top leaders succeed in mortgages and lending?

In this episode of NRG Insights, we bring together four inspiring women in finance.

They share their stories, achievements, and challenges.

Visibility is important, and that’s why we’ve chosen to highlight these female leaders in a male-dominated industry.

Tune in for insights on creating success, overcoming obstacles, and driving change.

Who Are Our Guests?

Leanne Ardron
Leanne Ardron is the Director of Bridging at LendInvest. With 15 years in the specialist finance industry, she has played a crucial role in LendInvest’s growth since joining in 2012.

Roz Cawood
Roz Cawood is the Managing Director of Property Finance at Streambank. Her career started at Natwest and has spanned business development and strategic partnerships. She is a leader in promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Gemma Perry
Gemma Perry is the Operations Director at Acumen Mortgages. With over 15 years in finance, she has helped Acumen grow from a North West-based business to a national company, specialising in new build mortgages.

Andrea Glasgow
Andrea Glasgow is the Sales Director at Hampshire Trust Bank. With over 17 years in the financial services sector, she leads one of the most respected BDM teams and is a Mortgage Introducer Elite Winner 2024.

4 Take Aways For Leaders (One from Each Guest)

Leanne Ardron:
Specialise to Succeed – Narrowing your focus to a specific niche can enhance your value in the market. Specialising in a particular area, like Leanne’s focus on bridging finance, allows you to become a go-to expert, creating success and opportunities.

Roz Cawood:
Promote Inclusive Conversations – Creating a culture where discussions about equality are open and comfortable is crucial. Encourage team members to share their experiences and perspectives. This helps identify areas for improvement and ensures everyone feels valued and heard.

Gemma Perry:
Build Team Loyalty – Demonstrating loyalty to your team, especially during challenging times, creates a culture of trust and hard work. Support your team members through ups and downs, and they will be more committed and dedicated, helping growth and resilience in the business.

Andrea Glasgow:
Stay True to Yourself – Authenticity is a powerful tool in leadership. Being genuine in your interactions and decisions builds trust and respect among your team and clients. When you stay true to your values and principles, it creates a strong foundation for long-term success.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
YouTube and Spotify just search NRG-Resourcing and subscribe or follow to be the first to access.

We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

31Jul

Investing in People within Specialist Lending with Michael Stratton

How can you build a successful specialist lending business?

Trying to thrive in the specialist lending market? This week’s NRG Insights post holds the answers you’ve been looking for.

In this blog, I’m joined by Michael Stratton, CEO of MS Lending Group. Michael’s extensive experience in the secured industry offers valuable lessons for anyone in bridging and specialist lending.

We cover everything from building strong broker relationships to developing niche products and fostering a collaborative, people-centric culture.

Who Is Michael Stratton?

Michael Stratton is the founder and CEO of MS Lending Group.

With over 13 years in the secured lending industry, Michael previously spent more than a decade at Together, the UK’s largest specialist lender.

He excels in managing large accounts and maintaining strong corporate relationships. Day-to-day, Michael focuses on business growth and direction but still enjoys engaging directly with brokers and customers, seeing deals through from enquiry to completion.

5 Things Specialist Lenders Can Learn About Building a Business

1. Strong Broker Relationships Michael emphasises the importance of building and maintaining robust relationships with brokers. These connections are vital for securing deals and driving business growth. Invest time in understanding your brokers’ needs and support them to create a loyal network.

2. Niche Product Development Creating niche products tailored to specific market needs can set you apart. Michael’s experience shows that innovation in product offerings can help you meet unique customer demands and stay ahead in a competitive market.

3. Collaborative Culture Fostering a collaborative, people-centric culture within your team is crucial. Michael believes that a supportive environment where everyone understands the business’s goals leads to higher motivation and better performance. Regular updates and open communication keep the team aligned and engaged.

4. Effective Branding and Marketing Standing out in a traditional industry requires innovative branding and marketing strategies. Michael highlights the importance of breaking the mould and creating a strong brand presence. This approach not only attracts clients but also builds a reputable image in the market.

5. Continuous Learning and Adaptation Staying informed about industry trends and being open to new approaches can help you navigate challenges and seize opportunities as they arise.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
YouTube and Spotify just search NRG-Resourcing and subscribe or follow to be the first to access.

We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

24Jul

Mastering Protection Sales with Matt Chapman (The Protection Coach)

Ready to Revolutionise Your Protection Sales?

In this week’s NRG Insights, we’re celebrating our 50th episode with Matt Chapman, The Protection Coach.

Whether you’re a large brokerage or a small firm, Matt’s insights on protection sales are invaluable.

In this episode, Marcus Nanson sits down with Matt Chapman to discuss practical methods for integrating protection sales into your brokerage’s offering. You’ll learn about building financial resilience, maintaining consistent practices, and fostering strong client relationships.

Who is Matt Chapman?

Matt Chapman is a multi-award-winning protection coach and the host of the #LetsTalkIP podcast.

With a career spanning various roles in financial services, Matt has worked with some of the largest brokerages in the UK, as well as smaller firms and high-performing individuals.

His approach focuses on revolutionising protection performance, providing training, and fostering client relationships. Living in Solihull with his wife and three children, Matt is also an avid snowboarder and traveller, speaking fluent Spanish from his 10 years living in Spain.

5 Tips That Guarantee More Protection Sales

Financial Resilience Matt emphasises the importance of shifting the focus from merely selling insurance to ensuring clients’ financial sustainability. This approach not only adds value to your services but also builds long-term trust with clients.
Consistency in Practices Successful advisors embed protection conversations throughout the mortgage process rather than treating them as separate discussions. By integrating these talks from the beginning, clients better understand the importance of protection.
Build Strong Client Relationships Maintaining regular contact with clients through annual reviews and consistent touchpoints helps reduce policy cancellations. Building strong, ongoing relationships ensures clients feel valued and supported, which leads to higher retention rates.
Highlighting Value Over Cost Focusing on the long-term benefits of protection policies rather than just the cost helps clients see the value in what they are purchasing. This perspective reduces the likelihood of cancellations and increases client satisfaction.
A Culture of Protection: Creating a culture within your brokerage that prioritises protection is essential. By fostering an environment where protection is seen as a fundamental part of the service, rather than an optional extra, you ensure that all team members are committed to discussing and promoting it with every client. This cultural shift can lead to higher adoption rates and better client outcomes.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
YouTube and Spotify just search NRG-Resourcing and subscribe or follow to be the first to access.

We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

17Jul

Building a Career in Bridging with Leanne Ardron

Are you aiming to build a successful career in bridging finance?

In this post, we delve into the experiences and strategies of Leanne Ardron, Director of Bridging at LendInvest.

From her career beginnings to her current role, Leanne shares valuable insights that can help anyone looking to thrive in the specialist finance industry.

She discusses the current state of the industry, the importance of company culture, the technological advancements driving change and explains how anyone can build a successful career in bridging.

Who is Leanne Ardron?

Leanne Ardron has dedicated 15 years to the specialist finance industry. Leanne joined LendInvest in 2012 as the third employee and has played a crucial role in the company’s growth. Now, as Director of Bridging, she oversees the entire bridging proposition, focusing on short-term lending.

Her accolades include being part of the B&C Power List for 2023, involvement in the BDLA, and serving on LendInvest’s Senior Leadership Team. Leanne’s leadership has driven key milestones, including launching the bridging portal and achieving record numbers in short-term lending.

5 Take-Aways To Succeed in Bridging Finance

Culture:
A positive, entrepreneurial culture is vital. Leanne credits LendInvest’s success to its strong culture, regular company updates, and initiatives like “brown bag” sessions that keep the team engaged and informed.
Technology:
Embracing technological advancements is crucial. LendInvest’s use of Automated Valuation Models (AVMs) and electronic signatures has streamlined processes, enhancing efficiency and client satisfaction.
Supportive Employee Environment:
Clear communication and setting boundaries are key to maintaining productivity and well-being. Leanne’s return from maternity leave highlights the importance of a supportive and flexible work environment.
Vision and Leadership:
The growth of LendInvest from a small team to a major operation underscores the value of clear vision and strong leadership. Leanne emphasises the need for focus and the willingness to take calculated risks.
Adaptability:
Leanne’s career began unexpectedly in financial services. Her ability to adapt and excel in various roles highlights the importance of being open to new opportunities and ready to pivot when needed.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
YouTube and Spotify just search NRG-Resourcing and subscribe or follow to be the first to access.

We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

10Jul

The Future of Buy To Let Mortgages with Harsha Dahyea

How can lenders keep up with creative buy-to-let landlords?

Buy-to-let landlords are getting more creative than ever.

But the question remains – can lenders keep up?

This week, NRG Insights dives into the mortgage industry with Harsha Dahyea from Quantum Mortgages.

Harsha shares her experience and insights, offering lessons for brokers, lenders, and anyone involved in the property market. She discuss the current state of the mortgage industry, focusing specifically on the buy-to-let corner of the market.

Who is Harsha Dahyea?

Harsha Dahyea is the Head of Sales and Distribution at Quantum Mortgages.

With extensive experience in the specialist mortgage market, Harsha has been instrumental in launching mortgage propositions at Bluestone Mortgages, Metro Bank, and State Bank of India.

During the start-up phase at Bluestone, she became a highly successful Key Account Manager, winning a major network’s BDM of the Year award in 2018, 2019, and 2020.

5 Lessons Specialist Lenders Can Learn from Harsha Dahyea

Innovative Strategies for Buy-to-Let Landlords
The buy-to-let market is evolving, with landlords becoming increasingly creative in managing their portfolios. Lenders need to adapt by offering flexible and innovative products that meet these new demands.
Embracing Technology
Technology is transforming the mortgage process. From open banking to AI-driven KYC checks, embracing tech can streamline operations and enhance the customer journey. Harsha emphasises that while technology is crucial, maintaining a human touch is equally important.
Understanding Market Trends
Staying ahead of market trends is vital for success. Harsha highlights the importance of understanding shifting demographics and the changing needs of landlords. Keeping ontop of these trends allows lenders to offer relevant solutions.
Building Strong Broker Relationships
Strong relationships with brokers are essential. Harsha’s success as a Key Account Manager demonstrates the value of collaboration and trust. Lenders should focus on building and maintaining strong partnerships with brokers to ensure mutual success.
Leadership and Learning
Continuous learning and strong leadership are key to navigating the complexities of the mortgage market. Harsha advises lenders to invest in training and development for their teams, ensuring they stay informed and capable of meeting market challenges.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
YouTube and Spotify just search NRG-Resourcing and subscribe or follow to be the first to access.

We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

10Jul

The Numbers Behind New Build Mortgages with Gemma Perry

Are New Build Mortgages Your Next Great Opportunity?

In the latest episode of NRG Insights, we were joined by Gemma Perry, Operations Director at Acumen Mortgages.

We dive into the challenges she faced in the new build sector, Acumen’s effective employee retention strategies, the evolving mortgage market, and the growing importance of digital marketing and social media.

From her unique career path to the current trends in the new build mortgage market, Gemma offers plenty of practical advice and strategies for brokers and professionals in finance.

Who is Gemma Perry?

Gemma Perry is the Operations Director at Acumen Mortgages.

Gemma Perry has been working in finance since 2007 and specialising in new build mortgages for nearly ten years. With her expertise, Acumen Mortgages has grown from a North West-based business to a national company. Gemma focuses on developing relationships with builders and lenders, improving customer experience, and sharing knowledge. She also manages the compliance side of the business, ensuring protection for both advisers and clients.

Living in Cheshire with her husband and dog, Gemma enjoys hiking, good food, wine, and spending time with family and friends.

5 Things to Learn from Gemma Perry

Your Journey Is Your Own: Gemma’s career path is unconventional. She skipped university, traveled, and entered the job market post the 2008 financial crash. Her experiences shaped her unique approach to the mortgage industry.
Challenges in the New Build Sector: Gemma shares insights into the new build market, highlighting the importance of maintaining robust relationships with builders and lenders. She discusses the specific challenges and dynamics of this sector.
Employee Retention Strategies: Acumen’s strategy focuses on loyalty and efficiency. Even during tough economic times, they resist redundancies, showcasing a model for strong employee retention.
Evolving Mortgage Market: The mortgage market is shifting towards financial education and inclusivity in hiring. Gemma emphasises the benefits of bringing fresh, younger perspectives into the industry.
Digital Marketing and Social Media: Gemma highlights the increasing importance of a strong digital presence. Adapting to the changing expectations of new generations entering the workforce is crucial for staying relevant in the market.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
YouTube and Spotify just search NRG-Resourcing and subscribe or follow to be the first to access.

We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

02Jul

6 Proven Ways to Boost Team Happiness and Productivity

The mortgage and lending industry has faced its share of challenges in recent years.

Economic ups and downs, new regulations, and market shifts have made this a stressful field to work in.

That’s why it’s more important than ever to create a happy and productive work environment. Happy employees are more engaged, motivated, and productive.

In fact, research from the University of Warwick found that happiness led to a 12% increase in productivity. Additionally, the Harvard Business Review reports that happy employees are 31% more productive.

So, to help you get the most from your team, here are six proven strategies to boost team happiness and productivity in your brokerage.

Let’s get started…

1. Promote Work-Life Balance

Balancing work and personal life is crucial for a happy, hardworking, and de-stressed team. Here’s how you can encourage it.

Flexible Working Hours: Allow employees to set their own hours within a certain range to manage personal commitments better. This can increase job satisfaction and reduce burnout.

Remote Work Options: Let employees work from home one or two days a week.

Encourage Time Off: Promote the use of holiday days and support employees in taking the time they need to recharge. Time Off shows that employees who take all their holiday days are 34% more likely to receive a bonus or raise.

2. A Supportive and Inclusive Culture

Creating a supportive and inclusive work environment is essential for employee happiness and productivity.

Open Communication: Encourage an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas and concerns.

Diversity and Inclusion Programmes: Implement initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion, ensuring all employees feel valued and respected. A diverse team brings varied perspectives and can drive innovation.

3. Recognise and Reward Contributions

Recognising and rewarding employees for their hard work can significantly boost morale and motivation.

Regular Recognition: Implement a system for regular recognition of employee achievements, such as monthly awards or shout-outs in meetings. This shows employees that their efforts are valued.

Monetary Rewards: Provide bonuses, gift cards, or other financial incentives for outstanding performance.

Growth Opportunities: Offer opportunities for career advancement, such as promotions, skill development programmes, and leadership training. Investing in your employees’ growth shows that you value their future with the company.

4. Build a Team that Fits the Company Culture

Hiring individuals who align with your company’s values and vision is crucial for driving your brokerage forward.

Behavioural Testing: Use behavioural testing to understand how potential hires might fit into your company culture. This can help you make informed hiring decisions.

Comprehensive Recruitment: Reach the entire available market—not just those who are unemployed or actively seeking jobs. Sometimes the best candidates are not actively looking. Working with a recruitment company specialising in mortgage brokers can help you find the perfect fit.

Team-Building Activities: Organise regular team-building activities to strengthen relationships and improve teamwork. These activities can help create a cohesive and collaborative work environment.

5. Employee Training

Your team is your most valuable asset. Regular training ensures they stay up-to-date with the latest financial tools and customer service best practices.

Continuous Learning: Encourage employees to pursue professional certifications and ongoing education. This helps them stay current with industry trends and enhances their skills.

Training Programmes: Offer ongoing training and development opportunities. Regular workshops, webinars, and courses can help employees improve their competencies.

Mentorship Schemes: Implement mentorship programmes where experienced employees can guide and support newer team members. This fosters knowledge sharing and professional growth.

6. Workplace Flexibility

Providing workplace flexibility can greatly improve employee satisfaction and productivity. It allows employees to balance their work and personal lives more effectively.

Remote Work Options: Allow employees to work from home one or two days a week. This flexibility can lead to higher job satisfaction and lower stress levels.

Flexible Working Hours: Let employees choose their working hours within a certain range. This helps them manage personal and professional responsibilities better, reducing burnout.

Supportive Policies: Implement policies that support flexible working arrangements. Ensure that employees feel trusted and valued when working flexibly.

Conclusion

Creating a positive work environment is not just about about being a popular boss.

Happy employees work harder.

By promoting work-life balance, fostering a supportive culture, recognising contributions, building a strong team, investing in training, and encouraging workplace flexibility, you can significantly enhance your team’s happiness and productivity.

Embrace these strategies to future-proof your brokerage and thrive in the competitive mortgage and lending industry.

If you’re committed to hiring high-quality, behaviourally suited talent, let’s connect and discuss how we can redefine your recruitment process, ensuring each new hire is not just an addition but a lasting asset to your mortgage business.

If you’re seeking a new role, or are searching for new talent, please click on the appropriate link to book a call with me today.

nadia knight

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