NRG Insights - NRG Resourcing

01May

How to Become a Lending Leader with James Briggs

How do you climb the ladder in the competitive world of lending?

This week, we delve into the professional journey of James Briggs, Head of Intermediary Sales at Together.

With a career that spans over two decades in the lending industry, James has navigated through numerous market cycles, technological shifts, and evolving client needs.

This blog post unpacks his invaluable experiences and offers actionable lessons for anyone looking to excel in the lending space.

Who is James Briggs?

James Briggs began his career in 1999 and quickly established himself as a key player in lending.

Currently Head of Intermediary sales for the Personal Finance at Together, James has a history of working with specialist lenders and distributors.

His knack for fostering strong partnerships has been pivotal in supporting packagers nationwide, ensuring that clients receive optimal lending solutions.

His approach goes beyond mere transactions, focusing on sustainable business growth and the long-term success of his clients and their customers.

5 Things Lenders Can Learn from James Briggs:

Building Strong Relationships: James’s career underscores the importance of cultivating deep, meaningful connections with industry partners. These relationships are crucial for navigating the complexities of the lending world and ensuring client satisfaction.
Adaptability in a Changing Market: Staying relevant means adapting to market changes swiftly and effectively. James’s ability to pivot and embrace new technologies and methodologies has been key to his enduring success.
Client-Centric Strategies: Focusing on the needs and circumstances of clients has allowed James to develop tailored solutions that truly make a difference. This client-first approach is something all lenders can implement to enhance their service offerings.
Leadership and Team Development: Effective leadership is about more than just guiding a team—it’s about inspiring and motivating people to achieve their best. James’s leadership style promotes professional growth and high performance among his team members.
Continuous Learning and Improvement: The financial landscape is ever-evolving, and staying informed is non-negotiable. James commits to ongoing professional development, which is essential for anyone looking to advance in their career.

For Even More

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

24Apr

Guiding Future Success in Lending with Roz Cawood

How do successful leaders drive change and create inclusive environments in lending?

In this post, we explore the journey of Roz Cawood, Managing Director of Property Finance at Streambank, and how her experiences can guide and inspire lending professionals today.

From her early days at Natwest to her current leadership role, Roz has continuously broken barriers and paved the way for more inclusive practices in finance.

Who is Roz Cawood?

Roz Cawood’s career in specialist finance has been as dynamic as it has been influential. Starting at Natwest and quickly advancing to a management trainee at a building society, Roz’s leadership skills became evident early on.

By 25, she was leading a major team as Head of Operations, and her trajectory soared from there. Her roles have spanned across business development, strategic partnerships, and now, leading Property Finance at Streambank. Here, she not only drives business growth but also champions equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Roz is also an avid marathon runner who channels her energy into charity, raising funds for cancer research.

5 Key Insights for Lenders from Roz Cawood

Adaptability in Leadership: Roz’s career shows the importance of adapting to new roles and challenges, teaching lenders the value of flexibility in a rapidly changing market.
Fostering Inclusion: Learn how creating an inclusive environment can enhance team performance and drive innovation in financial services.
Building Resilient Teams: Insights into how strong leadership can help teams navigate crises and emerge stronger, ready to tackle the financial market’s volatility.
The Role of Mentorship: Roz emphasises the significance of mentorship in career growth, underscoring how experienced guidance can shape the future of upcoming finance professionals.
Commitment to Personal Development: Her dedication to continuous learning and personal challenges, exemplifies the importance of personal growth alongside professional development.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
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We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

15Apr

Mastering Market Dynamics with Josh Knight

With the ever-changing dynamics of the lending industry, staying ahead requires not just expertise but also an innovative approach.

In our latest discussion, Josh Knight of Octane Capital delves into the subtleties of specialist lending, offering a fresh perspective on the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

Josh brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to the table. From making hundreds of cold calls a day in his early sales career to steering the sales and marketing strategies at Octane Capital.

This blog uncovers how Josh’s strategic thinking and market insights can benefit lenders and financial professionals looking to navigate the complexities of today’s property finance landscape.

Who is Josh Knight?

Graduating from the University of Leeds Business School with a degree in Management and Marketing, Josh quickly realised his passion for sales was more than just a job—it was a calling.

His early experiences in cold-calling taught him the resilience needed in sales, which he carried into his roles at Octopus Investments and Mariana Capital. However, it was at Octane Capital where Josh found his true calling in property finance, climbing up the ranks to become Sales and Marketing Director.

Today, he not only manages sales targets but also leads the sales team and oversees the company’s marketing efforts.

5 Things Lenders Can Learn?

Adapt to Market Needs: Understand the specific needs of your market and adapt your strategies accordingly.
Foster Strong Relationships: Building lasting relationships with clients and stakeholders can significantly impact your business success.
Embrace Continuous Learning: The lending industry is continuously evolving, making it essential to stay informed and adaptable.
Prioritise Team Development: Investing in your team’s growth and development is key to maintaining a competitive edge.
Innovate Strategically: Innovation isn’t just about adopting new technologies but also about thinking creatively to solve problems.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
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We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

10Apr

Optimism in the Market with Brad Rhodes

How can mortgage brokers navigate the current market with confidence?

In this week’s blog post, Marcus is joined by Brad Rhodes from Pepper Money to discuss this, and much more.

The lending industry demands adaptability, foresight and human touch, and Brad shares valuable insights on staying ahead in 2024 that adopt these strategies, blending his rich background from the Royal Air Force to his role in the mortgage industry today.

Who is Brad Rhodes?

Brad Rhodes is the National Key Account Manager at Pepper Money.

Brad’s military background laid the foundation for his disciplined approach to challenges, a trait that he’s carried into his mortgage career.

His path through retail banking and specialist lending, culminating in his role at Pepper Money, highlights a commitment to excellence and innovation. Brad’s insights are particularly relevant now, as the mortgage market navigates through unpredictable waters.

5 Things Mortgage Brokers Can Learn from Brad Rhodes?

Understand Market Dynamics: Grasp the underlying forces that shape today’s mortgage rates and lending practices. This understanding will allow you to predict and act on what’s to come.
Client Relations: Master the art of client communication, ensuring they’re informed and prepared for market shifts.
Service Diversification: Expand your offerings to include holistic financial planning, from mortgages to protection and insurance.
Lifelong Learning: Stay ahead with continuous professional development, keeping pace with market and regulatory changes.
Network: Forge and maintain strong connections within the industry for mutual growth and opportunities

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
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We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

02Apr

Driving Success with Company Culture with Sundeep Patel

How can a lender stand out in today’s competitive market?

In an industry as competitive as ours, understanding the inner workings of successful leaders can offer actionable strategies for aspiring leaders and brokers.

Sundeep Patel, Director of Bridging at United Trust Bank, recently shared his journey and insights on the NRG Insights podcast, providing a fresh perspective on leadership, market dynamics, and the importance of culture within the lending sector.

Who is Sundeep Patel?

Sundeep Patel is the Director of Bridging at United Trust Bank. With over twenty years under his belt in financial services, Sundeep has a wealth of experience, knowledge and strategies.

At Together, as the Director of Sales, Sundeep showcased his leadership skills, guiding the company through the pandemic’s challenges, revamping their approach to working with intermediaries, and setting new strategic goals.

Before making his mark at Together, Sundeep played a key role at Precise Mortgages as National Sales Manager. He’s well-regarded for his in-depth market knowledge, dedication to ongoing education, and drive for innovation.

5 Things Lenders Can Learn from Sundeep Patel?

Building Strong Relationships: Success in lending hinges on the strength of your relationships. Sundeep’s career is a testament to the power of genuine connections within the industry.
Continuous Learning: The lending market is ever-evolving. Staying informed and adaptable ensures you can navigate changes effectively.
Creating a Supportive Culture: A positive workplace culture is crucial for team engagement and success. Sundeep’s leadership style prioritises inclusivity and support.
Navigating Market Changes: Adaptability in the face of market fluctuations is key. Sundeep’s resilience through various market challenges offers valuable lessons.
Fostering Team Success: Leading by example and encouraging team development has been central to Sundeep’s success in building award-winning teams.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
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We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

25Mar

Building Trust in Lending with Jaxon Stevens

How can you build a lasting career in lending?

In this blog we focus on an episode of NRG Insights where Marcus Nanson CeMAP sat down with Jaxon Stevens from Tuscan Capital to explore his growth, development and top tips in the lending industry.

In this post, we’ll focus on the very best parts of the conversation, including the full video and audio versions. Jaxon shares a wealth of experience, from his early days in high street banking to leading the sales team at Tuscan Capital. His journey is not just about personal growth but a blueprint for those aiming to carve their path in the lending industry.

Who is Jaxon Stevens?

Jaxon’s career spans over 25 years, cutting across high-profile roles in financial services. From GE Money to NatWest and spearheading sales teams at Omni Property Finance and Sancus Lending. Currently, as the Sales Director at Tuscan Capital, Jaxon continues to push the envelope, fostering business relationships and championing continuous education in the property finance sector.

His expertise in bridging, development, and refurbishment loans makes him a key player in residential and commercial lending spaces.

5 Lessons For Lenders and Brokers…

Networking is Everything: In a field where who you know can be as crucial as what you know, Jaxon underscores the importance of building a robust professional network. These relationships can open doors, provide insights, and support career growth in ways that traditional pathways may not.
Trust as the Foundation: The cornerstone of any lasting business relationship is trust. In lending, where clients and partners rely on your advice and services, establishing trust can mean the difference between a one-time transaction and a lifelong partnership.
Adaptability Leads to Innovation: The lending landscape is ever-changing. Staying adaptable allows professionals to not only navigate these changes but to innovate within them. Jaxon’s transition from traditional banking to specialist financial markets exemplifies how adaptability can lead to new opportunities.
The Value of Specialization: Diving deep into specific financial solutions, like bridging and development loans, Jaxon has carved a niche for himself. This specialisation has not only made him an expert in his field but also a go-to consultant for complex lending scenarios.
Continuous Learning as a Career Strategy: Jaxon’s passion for education is a reminder that learning doesn’t stop once you land a job. Continuous learning and awareness of new market opportunities keep professionals ahead of the curve and ready to seize new opportunities.

For Even More

Insights, giveaways and latest updates follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook,
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We are always open to collaborations with NRG Insights, feel free to get in touch on info@nrg-resourcing.co.uk

20Mar

Culture and Success in Lending with Roger Morris

In the fiercely competitive world of lending, standing out requires more than just conventional strategies.

So, how can lending leaders carve a niche for themselves and thrive?

In this week’s post, we dive into the insights of Roger Morris, Director of Mortgage Division Sales and Distribution at Tandem Bank, a man who knows all about innovation and success in the specialist lending market.

If you’re a leader or someone aspiring to become one in the lending industry, Roger’s story is one that you can not miss!

This is why…

Who is Roger Morris?

Roger Morris’s influence in specialist lending spans over thirty years.

Starting with his own venture before the 2008 financial downturn, Roger transitioned to helping build Precise Mortgages into a major market player. Now at Tandem, he focuses on launching and expanding the mortgage division, aiming to educate brokers and champion specialist lending.

His extensive knowledge and dedication to broker education highlight his commitment to fostering growth and recognising potential within the industry.

5 Things Lending Leaders Can Learn…

In a market like specialist lending, insights from seasoned professionals like Roger Morris are invaluable.

Here are five strategies lending leaders can adopt from his knowledge:

Educate to Innovate: Understanding the nuances of specialist lending isn’t just beneficial, it’s crucial. Like Roger, leaders should focus on educating their teams and brokers about the market. This knowledge empowers them to identify and seize opportunities that others might overlook.
Champion Your Sector: Roger’s commitment to specialist lending shows the power of having a cause. By championing a specific segment of the market, leaders can build a strong brand identity and become the go-to expert in their niche.
Embrace the Power of Networking: Training brokers and engaging with the community have been key to Roger’s strategy. Leaders should invest time in building and nurturing these relationships, as they are vital for understanding market needs and driving growth.
Continuous Product Innovation: The lending landscape is ever-evolving. Leaders need to continuously work on expanding and refining their product offerings, much like Roger’s approach at Tandem. Staying ahead of market trends and customer needs can set a lender apart from the competition.
Knowledge is Power: Roger’s encyclopaedic understanding of specialist lending underscores the importance of in-depth market knowledge. Leaders should strive to become lifelong learners, constantly updating their understanding of the market to guide their strategy and decision-making.

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

11Mar

Breaking Mortgage Industry Barriers with Andrea Glasgow

What makes a great leader in the mortgage industry?

In our latest blog, we’re exploring just that with insights from Andrea Glasgow, Sales Director at Hampshire Trust Bank and recent MI’s Elite Winner 2024.

From starting as a cashier to leading one of the most dynamic teams in the specialist market, this podcast with Andrea is a masterclass in effective relationship-building and leadership within the lending industry.

Andrea’s experience sheds light on the power of genuine connections and mentorship in driving both personal and professional growth.

Ready to get started?

Let’s find out more about the woman herself, and the strategies that have propelled her to success.

Who is Andrea Glasgow?

Andrea Glasgow has made significant strides in the financial services sector, starting her journey as a cashier and ascending to the role of Sales Director at Hampshire Trust Bank.

With over 17 years of experience, Andrea has navigated the challenges of a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her role involves leading one of the most respected BDM teams in the specialist market, helping her to the Mortgage Introducer Elite Winner 2024.

Outside of work, Andrea is equally passionate about contributing to her community, whether through volunteering, coaching a netball team, or participating in charity events like the St. Barnabas Hospice 25KM Midnight Walk.

Andrea does her best to balance a demanding career with personal interests such as travel, fitness, and spending time with her family and French Bulldog, Joey.

5 Key Lessons for Lenders:

Andrea Glasgow’s journey and insights offer a masterclass in navigating the finance industry with resilience and ambition. Here are 5 key lessons that lenders and mortgage brokers can take-away from this interview.

Seize Every Opportunity: Climbing from a retail banking cashier to Sales Director underscores the power of seizing opportunities, no matter how small they might seem at the start. Every opportunity is a chance to grow.
Build Strong Relationships: Her emphasis on relationship-building within the industry highlights its importance in securing long-term success and client trust. They say that your network is your net worth, build relationships, so get building.
Embrace Mentorship: Andrea’s experience points to the value of both seeking out mentors and becoming one, showcasing the mutual benefits of guidance and support.
Navigate Gender Dynamics: As an award-winning woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, Andrea’s perspective provides actionable insights into breaking barriers and making your mark.
Balance Work with Personal Passions: Andrea’s involvement in community work and her personal interests outside of finance illustrate the significance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance for overall well-being and satisfaction.

By incorporating these takeaways, lenders and mortgage brokers can enhance their careers and personal development within the fast-paced world of finance.

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

05Mar

5 Strategies to Attract and Retain Women in Finance 2024

Innovation and success in any industry relies on gender diversity.

Despite leaps forward in recent years, corners of the finance industry continue to struggle attracting and retaining female talent, particularly in leadership roles.

As we move into 2024, it’s crucial that we address this imbalance with targeted strategies that attract and retain women in finance. Creating not just great team members, but role models.

This post outlines five key approaches that do exactly that. Drawing on our experience as professional recruiters, to draw women into the finance industry and ensure they stay, thrive, and lead.

Let’s get started…

1. Redefining Recruitment

women in finance recruitment

The journey towards gender diversity begins at recruitment.

Our research indicates that job descriptions often inadvertently appeal more to male candidates. To change this, focus on inclusive language that resonates with female values, such as collaboration and community, while ensuring qualifications are not unnecessarily restrictive.

By clearly communicating core values and using technology to assess the inclusivity of our job adverts, you can attract a broader, more diverse talent pool.

2. Embracing Flexible Working

Flexibility is no longer a perk but a fundamental expectation, especially for working parents.

Recognising this, consider flexible working arrangements that accommodate the needs of your employees, irrespective of gender. This approach not only aids in attracting female talent but is essential in retaining them, ensuring that team members do not have to choose between their career and personal life.

Your commitment extends beyond flexible hours to fostering an environment where such choices are respected and supported.

3. Make Female Role Models Visible

Visibility matters.

Highlighting the achievements of women in your organisation not only celebrates their contributions but also inspires others.

By showcasing the diverse paths to success within Finance, you can motivate and encourage women at all levels of their career.

This strategy is pivotal in building a culture where women see themselves reflected in their leaders and feel a stronger sense of belonging and possibility within the finance industry.

4. Promote Mentorship and Career Development

female leadership recruitment

Access to mentorship and targeted career development opportunities can significantly impact women’s career trajectories in finance.

By establishing programmes specifically designed to support women, you provide tools and networks necessary for gender diversity.

These initiatives should be supported by both male and female leaders, ensuring they are inclusive, equitable, and effective in preparing women for leadership roles.

5. Addressing Unconscious Bias

female recruitment in finance

To create a truly inclusive workplace, tackling unconscious bias is essential.

Through comprehensive training and the use of HR technology, commit to ensuring your hiring practices, promotions, and performance evaluations are fair and unbiased.

By understanding and mitigating these biases, you can make more informed decisions and foster a culture that truly values diversity and inclusion.

Conclusion

As we look forwards in 2024, these five strategies are at the heart of attracting women into finance and ensuring they feel valued, supported, and empowered to ascend to leadership positions.

Gender diversity is not just a metric to aspire to, it’s a reflection of your dedication to building an inclusive, dynamic, and innovative finance sector.

What do you think of these 5 points? Are there any that we may have missed?

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

04Mar

Health, Hard Work and Success in Lending with Jamie Pritchard

It’s rare to find stories, in any industry, that not only inspire but also share valuable lessons.

Jamie Pritchard’s journey in the financial services sector is one that does exactly that.

It’s a story that demonstrates resilience, strategic innovation, and the power of a customer-centric approach.

Whether you’re a lender, a broker, or someone ambitiously working through the complexities of the financial industry, Jamie’s insights offer a roadmap to not just surviving but thriving in this competitive space.

Ready? Let’s go…

Who is Jamie Pritchard?

Jamie Pritchard is the Managing Director of Sales at Glenhawk.

Starting his career in the late 90s, Jamie quickly demonstrated his versatility and expertise across various roles, from addressing endowment and pension complaints to crafting an advised mortgage process at Principality BS.

At Precise Mortgages, as Head of Sales, Jamie led his team to multiple accolades, and now, as the Managing Director of Sales at Glenhawk, Jamie is at the forefront of introducing cutting-edge products and enhancing the broker and client experience.

His dedication has propelled Glenhawk’s success and solidified his reputation as an influential leader, underscored by his role as a board member of the ASTL and his recognition at the Specialist Lending Awards.

5 Key Lessons for Lenders:

Embrace Change: The financial landscape is ever-evolving. Jamie’s career, marked by a willingness to adapt and innovate, shows that success often lies on the other side of adaptation. Embracing change, whether in technology, product offerings, or market strategies, is crucial.
Focus on Customer Experience: At the heart of Jamie’s approach is a relentless focus on improving the broker and client journey. This customer-centric mindset is a blueprint for building loyalty, enhancing brand reputation, and driving business growth.
Invest in Your Team: Jamie’s leadership at Precise Mortgages and Glenhawk demonstrates the importance of building and nurturing a stellar team. Recognising and developing talent, fostering a collaborative culture, and setting clear goals are pivotal for team success.
Strategic Innovation is Key: Being the first to win consecutive awards and leading teams to new heights requires strategic innovation. Jamie’s career teaches us that thinking outside the box and pioneering new solutions can set you apart in a crowded market.
Leadership Matters: Effective leadership goes beyond managing tasks. It’s about inspiring your team, setting a vision, and leading by example. Jamie’s role in steering companies through growth phases highlights the impact of visionary leadership.

Conclusion:

Jamie Pritchard’s journey from the call center to the boardroom is a story of resilience, innovation, and strategic leadership.

For lenders looking to navigate the challenges of today’s financial services landscape, Jamie’s principles offer a solid foundation for success.

Dive into his story and let us know what you think!

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

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