A Day in the Life of – Lewis Chinyou-Robinson

I am responsible for maintaining the relationships between distribution partners (Clubs & Networks) and April Mortgages, whilst also trying to identify opportunities for both parties to increase business volumes. I also do the same for several larger DA firms.

What does your morning routine look like?

Three days a week it’s getting up early to join the rat race into London, with the office being based in Euston. Meetings, emails and calls from brokers form a constant appearance in my diary, with webinars, or being on the road for events/conferences also making an appearance.
The two days I work from home, my first win is always surviving the school run. With three daughters, getting them up, ready and to school on time deserves a Nobel prize. The rest of the morning is as it would be if I were in the office.

What does a typical afternoon look like?

I tend to save my project work for the afternoon. As someone with a background in operational leadership, and the joys of working for a smaller lender, I get to work with many departments to help make an impact on everyday processes and challenges.
WFH afternoons do throw in the fight for a parking space with the school run, and a daddy/daughter Friday tradition of being fleeced at the local shop for sweets.

What do you find to be your most productive time of the day?

Sorry to say, I’m a morning person. Energy levels are high and optimism for the day is still going strong.

How do you manage your time to ensure you have a good work / life / home balance?

An incredible wife that holds down the house and allows me to be on the road when needed, and a great business culture that not only understands but flexes when family life throws curve balls unexpectedly.

What is your favourite part of your working day in your role?

The moments of praise from customers, brokers or distributors about how we’ve managed to help. That fuzzy feeling you get from these emails, calls or posts is, in my opinion, unmatched.

What does a typical dinner time look like in your household?

Is a zoo the right answer?! Lots of negotiating on how much needs to be eaten and how long they can play outside after it. Anyone with kids knows dinner time is always eventful. A mixture of tastebuds that change daily, the aim is always to make sure they eat something.

What do you do to unwind?

The gym is my vice. A space to reset, and plan for tomorrow (and get 60 minutes of peace). A beer with friends and family also goes down pretty well!

If you could give one piece of career advice what would it be?

Stick to your principles. A lot can change over the years, but never forget who you are and what your “why” is.

How important has your support network been in helping you through your role?

It’s the sole reason why I am where I am. An incredible partner has helped me through it all. Her support has been unwavering and has been the bedrock of my success. This is coupled with a boss who has a genuine goal to make me successful. Her support, wisdom and efforts have given me a platform to be envied. My success in my career is just the iceberg tip; my support network is the huge chunk below the surface.

Does your job require a degree?

I don’t have a degree – I made my way here via GCSE’s, A-Level’s, CeMAP and CIPD Level 5.