"It felt like the next natural step to take"
In the dynamic world of mortgages and property, professionals often navigate diverse career paths before finding their niche. Fortunately for Natalie Anderson (pictured), mortgage and protection adviser at Connect Mortgages, becoming a mortgage broker “felt like the next natural step to take” after leaving her job as senior business manager at Barclays.
Getting into the industry
Anderson’s journey into the mortgage industry began at Barclays Bank, where she honed her skills in managing a substantial portfolio of business clients. Her responsibilities included facilitating the financial needs of her clients, contributing significantly to the growth of the portfolios under her care.
After more than nine years with the bank, she made a pivotal decision to leave the banking giant to become a self-employed broker. For her, it was the natural progression to leverage her expertise in arranging finance for clients on a broader scale.
“I left Barclays in 2016 and becoming a mortgage broker felt like the next natural step to take,” she said. “With the support of Connect Mortgages, I started off advising on commercial and unregulated business.”
Driven by a desire to expand her expertise, Anderson pursued and completed her CeMAP qualification, which opened the door for her to delve into the intricacies of regulated transactions, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Motivations to continue as a broker
Motivation is a key factor in any professional’s journey, and for Anderson, it is deeply rooted in her experience at Barclays.
“My career with Barclays fuelled my passion for small businesses, understanding their challenges and helping them grow, so I have a special interest in this area,” she shared.
On a daily basis, Anderson witnesses the profound impact of her role on clients’ lives – from guiding first-time buyers embarking on their property journey to assisting landlords in expanding their portfolios. This commitment extends to other clients – say, for example, those facing traumatic life events, for whom she has organised protection policies.
“I absolutely love what I do, and I do not take it lightly,” she stressed.
Looking to the future
Looking ahead, Anderson envisions herself as a ‘one-stop shop’ for her clients, their friends, and their families at every stage of their property journey. Her goal is to continue expanding her already substantial and growing client base, fostering lasting relationships built on trust and expertise.
“I am also interested in being a changemaker for the industry,” she added. “I would like to be involved in policy making and improving diversity.
Anderson hopes to join a regulatory body panel one day, offering her insights while continuing her impactful role as a mortgage broker.
Are you a mortgage broker who also has a story to tell? Leave a comment in the discussion box at the bottom of the page, and you might get your story featured here too.
