As a BDM, I manage a large panel of mortgage brokers across the Southeast, supporting them with their Buy-to-Let business and helping them navigate everything from product criteria to landlord trends. What I love most is that the role is not only about numbers, but also about people. I get to work with everyone, from one-person firms to regional networks, and I see myself as both a business partner and a thought partner.
I am enthusiastic about improving housing outcomes and increasing access to homeownership, especially for people from underrepresented or financially challenged backgrounds. Having grown up in council housing and worked my way through the housing journey from tenant to landlord, I carry that perspective with me every day.
Mornings are a real mix! I have a toddler, so the day often starts early with reading news, nursery prep and the occasional negotiation over what is for breakfast. Once that is sorted, I will either head out on the road to see brokers or log in for early calls and planning sessions.
I have found that the early morning nursery run has become a quiet moment of reflection, thinking about the day ahead or listening to a podcast that sparks innovative ideas. I usually do a quick review of my calendar, prep for meetings, and respond to any urgent messages before the day kicks off properly.
Afternoons are all about execution, broker meetings, product conversations, and follow-ups from earlier discussions. I will often grab a late lunch between appointments (usually on the go), and I am always chasing daylight to make sure I respond to any queries while they are still fresh.
The most impactful moments come from unplanned conversations, a broker asking about market shifts or a criteria query that leads to a wider discussion on strategy. I try to leave space for those moments because that is where trust is built.
Late mornings and early evenings. Once the morning rush has passed, I find a nice rhythm. In the evenings, after my little one is in bed, I often reflect on the day, tie up loose ends, or read market insights.
I have also been leaning into AI tools like ChatGPT to save time on admin and improve how I share information with brokers. It is a game-changer when you are juggling a high-volume portfolio.
Planning is key. I review and prioritise my diary weekly, making sure I leave room for family, reflection, and the odd moment of stillness. I am learning to say no more often, not because I do not care, but because I care enough to give my best when I say yes.
Family days out are budgeted and blocked out, and I make space for physical health even if that is just a long walk with my little one or a quick gym session. Work will always be demanding, but I remind myself: if I am not well, everything else suffers.
Conversations. Real, meaningful conversations, whether that is helping a broker think differently about their business or exploring how policy changes are affecting the mortgage landscape. I love being in rooms where people are thinking big and problem-solving together.
We keep it relaxed. My partner Michelle is a brilliant cook and as a multi-racial family there is typically something vibrant and tasty to tuck into; we rotate who is in charge depending on the day. Dinner is usually around 6 or 7 PM so we can eat together as a family whenever we can – those 30 minutes often feel like the heart of the day full of connection and conversation from a very vocal toddler.
I am big on audio. A good podcast, voice note exchange with friends, or an old-school playlist helps me reset. I also love home design and renovations; I am currently creating a light-filled open-plan space and learning about retrofit solutions to adapt into our old 1930s home. It is slow, but it has been such a rewarding project.
Stay curious and visible. Learn aloud. Do not wait until you have all the answers to speak up, some of the best breakthroughs happen when you share what you are working on, even if it is still messy.
Invaluable. I have been lucky to have mentors and peers who champion me, challenge me, and show up consistently. My family has also been a rock; they keep me grounded and remind me what really matters.
No but it does require drive, empathy, and a willingness to keep learning. I am close to completing CeMAP and constantly upskilling through formal and informal learning on topics like Sustainability, data, and AI. The industry is evolving fast, so being agile and open-minded is more important than ever.
Giving back is a big part of who I am. I co-lead a self-funded initiative that provides crisis funding to individuals from low socio-economic backgrounds and ex-offenders, helping them stabilise during difficult periods. We offer emergency financial support, wellbeing guidance, and practical pathways to move forward. I am also proud to play a role in driving forward conversations on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion across the housing and financial services industries bringing visibility to lived experiences and pushing for meaningful, lasting change.
