Bringing women into the mortgage industry

The mortgage industry has long been a male-dominated sector, but Siobhan Williams (pictured), head of mortgages – retail broker at Pepper Money, says that needs to change.

Williams recently chatted with MPA about the importance of bringing more women into the industry.

“The finance and broking industry are widely perceived as male-dominated industries,” Williams said. “However, many successful brokers and finance leaders are challenging that misconception. Several brokerages have really bucked the trend and opened doors for women to be the best they can be. I’ve personally been inspired by women in the broking industry. That natural ability and desire to offer help and problem-solve has put many women in that ideal position to be highly respected and relatable, both with their employees and their customers.”

A recent MFAA Industry Intelligence Service report found that the proportion of female brokers fell to 25.6% in the period between April and September 2021 – the lowest level since reporting began. However, female broker recruit numbers are on the rise. Period-on-period numbers grew by 14.29%, while year-on-year numbers were up 16.5%.

Williams said that diversity in leadership was important in the industry. She said there were a good number of women at Pepper Money – especially in the sales teams.

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“I personally mentor emerging females in our team,” Williams said. “Like any leader that has worked their way from the ground up and can relate to people within different departments, a female leader can relate on a personal level to female employees, having been a parent and gone on maternity leave, having had similar challenges or struggles.”

Williams said that Pepper Money is passionate about championing women in finance and supporting them in achieving their personal and professional goals.

“There’s so many top-performing females in broking, and we’re committed to helping women thrive in the industry,” she said.