Alexander Hall

Office address: 137-144 High Holborn, London WC1V 6PL 
Website: www.alexanderhall.co.uk  
Year established: 1992 
Company type: financial services 
Employees: 80+ 
Expertise: mortgages, development finance, remortgages, specialist mortgages, offshore mortgages, general insurance, first time buyer, home mover, BTL mortgages, limited company BTL mortgages 
Parent company: Foxtons Group 
Key people: Richard Merrett (MD), Stephanie Daley (director), Yasar Ahmad (associate director), Adrian Fardini (director), Andrew Benjamin (director), Joe Milton (director), Saifur Rahman (head of risk and compliance) 
Financing status: N/A 

Alexander Hall is a London-based mortgage brokerage firm, providing flexible mortgage advice and services. With over 80 employees operating across four offices, they partner with more than 100 lenders. They offer free residential mortgage advice, with fees only applicable upon application. 

History of Alexander Hall 

Alexander Hall was founded in 1992, aiming to be qualified mortgage specialists who connect with clients, employing advanced technology in emotionally charged experiences. Over the years, their staff and operations grew significantly. They expanded their presence with offices in Canary Wharf, London Bridge, Shoreditch, and the West End.  

In 2022, Foxtons, the owner of Alexander Hall, retained the brokerage due to its strong financial performance, significant revenue contribution, and esteemed reputation. The company appointed Richard Merrett as managing director in 2023 for his industry experience and leadership skills, ensuring strong direction and growth. 

Products and Services of Alexander Hall 

Alexander Hall offers a comprehensive range of mortgage and financial services to accommodate its customers. These include: 

• first-time buyer mortgages: tailored solutions to help first-time buyers secure their first home 

• home mover mortgages: expert advice for those looking to move homes, ensuring a smooth transition 

• remortgage services: assistance in finding better mortgage deals for existing homeowners 

• buy-to-let mortgages: specialist advice for individuals looking to invest in rental properties 

• limited company buy-to-let mortgages: guidance for purchasing buy-to-let properties through a limited company 

• life insurance services: protection plans to ensure financial security for clients and their families 

• specialist finance: custom solutions for unique financial needs and complex cases 

Culture at Alexander Hall 

Alexander Hall fosters a dynamic work environment that supports career growth and development. The company invests in its people, with an engagement score 12% above the UK average. Along with nurturing and recognising the potential of its staff through comprehensive benefits and competitive salaries, the company also provides: 

• no shortage of available leads  

• tailored training and support regardless of experience level 

• high earning potential 

• efficient and friendly working environment 

• combination of remote working from home and the office  

Alexander Hall's philosophy aligns with the Grant Study findings, a study done by Harvard in 1938 that sought to find out what factors affected wellbeing and happiness. The company emphasises strong social connections with clients and partners, enhancing overall happiness and satisfaction. These kinds of relationships relate to the company’s main areas of focus, which are: 

• employee relationships: considerable time at work; diverse, friendly, supportive culture creates a 'home away from home’ 

• relationships with friends and families: value quality time with friends, partners, families; work-life balance is essential for motivation 

• client relationships: advisers who care and invest time build lasting relationships; clients evolve from first-time buyers to investors 

Alexander Hall values diversity, reflecting various human differences, including race, gender, and social class. They foster inclusion, ensuring all employees have equal opportunities and rights. This approach helps attract diverse talent, reflect community diversity, and engage a broader customer base, with initiatives like: 

• African and Afro Caribbean network: collaborates with The Africa Centre and Black Cultural Archives, supporting skill development, career opportunities, high-profile events 

• LGBTQ+ network: pride marches, events, talks, panel discussions 

• Inspire50 initiative: female talent, led by Stephanie Daley, access to business leaders 

• Career Ready partnership: internships, mentoring, masterclasses for youth 

• Diversity in Finance forum: promotes mortgage sector equity 

• AMI diversity report: research from 1,178 professionals for cultural change 

About Alexander Hall Managing Director Richard Merrett and Key People 

Richard Merrett was appointed as Alexander Hall's managing director in 2023. After serving as technical director for the company for 14 years, Merrett held other directorial roles in companies like SimplyBiz Mortgages and Large Mortgage Loans. He graduated from the University of Exeter with a BA in English. 

Key People who assist Merrett in leading the company include: 

• Stephanie Daley, as director of partnerships, ensures strategic alliances and client relationships 

• Yasar Ahmad, an associate director, focuses on business development and operational excellence 

• Adrian Fardini, a sales director, drives the company's sales strategy and growth 

• Andrew Benjamin, as training and competence manager and associate director, oversees employee training and regulatory compliance 

• Joe Milton, director of training and competence, enhances the skills and knowledge of the team 

• Saifur Rahman, as head of risk and compliance, ensures the company adheres to all regulatory standards 

The Future at Alexander Hall 

Alexander Hall aims to strengthen its market position and expand its services through enhancing their services and strengthening their leadership and management capabilities. Through the appointment of Merrett, their goal is to help more people achieve homeownership while growing the business and supporting employees. Moving forward, the company aims to focus on talent recruitment and development. 

Foxtons retaining Alexander Hall highlights the brokerage's strategic value and potential. This decision will support future growth and strengthen their market position, seeking to expand their financial adviser base. The focus on talent development and strong leadership will improve their competitive edge and client satisfaction.