My role has changed significantly over the last three and half years with Twenty7tec, with numerous job title changes and increasing responsibilities, which I love! I oversee the account management of our lender partners and support lenders through collaboration. I’m responsible for building relationships across the industry, involving leading my own team of Account Managers to achieve their own goals. My purpose is to retain our customers, drive adoption and seek opportunities for further collaboration to enhance the presence of how technology can digitise, streamline and simplify the mortgage advice process.
What does your morning routine look like?
I wish I could make this sound more exciting and exhilarating but I typically rise at 7:30 a.m. I’ve tried to be part of the “5 a.m. Club”, but it’s just not for me! I have three Mini Dachshunds – Tokyo, Rio and Rue – so, before I start work at 9:00 a.m., my morning typically involves enrichment activities, lots of cuddles, playtime, morning feed and a big cup of coffee to set me up for the day.
What does a typical afternoon look like?
My days are so varied but typically afternoons involve meeting with lenders and discussing upcoming propositions, service, new ideas and support. I’ve spent a lot of time recently reviewing our team strategy and goals, with a new National Account Manager joining my team, and preparing to kick off 2025 in the best way.
What do you find to be your most productive time of the day?
Strangely, late at night. Everyone is different but I find it’s because I have less distractions, side tasks and incoming requests. I’m less stimulated at night so I get more done in the evening. Not every night though, as I need to prioritise my own mental health and have a healthy work life balance.
How do you manage your time to ensure you have a good work / life / home balance?
I’m still figuring this out, it’s difficult when my most productive time is the evenings and my working hours are 9 to 5:30. One thing that has really helped me is setting boundaries and prioritisation. I’ve learnt that saying no to extra work is important; at one time I would say yes to everything. I prioritise my tasks for the week to avoid becoming overwhelmed. I plan which evenings I want to work as I know that’s how my brain operates. It allows me to plan for my home-life, making efforts to take certain evenings for me, my partner and the dogs.
What is your favourite part of your working day in your role?
Talking to like minded people who enjoy what they do and helping people achieve their goals, whether that’s my team, lenders, or the business. I like to be able to help and make a difference.
What does a typical dinner time look like in your household?
I will avoid cooking at all costs unless it’s a Sunday roast. My partner has recently found a love for slow cookers, so he generally makes us a delicious meal or we eat out so we can spend some quality time together.
What do you do to unwind?
I love joining sausage dog community walks, going to a nature reserve really helps me unwind. I also recently joined a new gym with a steam room, sauna and swimming pool, which I’ve found helps massively to relax but I definitely need to go more frequently . Obviously the most common thing to do is to binge watch a Netflix series.
If you could give one piece of career advice what would it be?
Don’t doubt your capability, and work hard. Everything is possible with drive and determination; be proud of who you are and work to your advantages.
How important has your support network been in helping you through your role?
Thankfully, I have a brilliant boss who just really understands me and the way I operate. I’m very open and honest so I think that helps. There isn’t ever a time where I feel incapable of something new because the support is always there. Without having a role model, a mentor and someone who believes in you it can be daunting but I’m very thankful to have that.
Does your job require a degree?
No. I left school in 2011 after completing my GCSE’s. I didn’t do A levels or go to university, and my first job was for LBG in a call centre. I haven’t left financial services since. There are plenty of opportunities without needing a degree and it’s encouraging to see that some of the most successful people in our industry also didn’t go to university. It really showcases the variety of opportunities we have to offer in this industry.