Rob Jupp of Brightstar Group discusses his path in the industry
Mortgage Introducer recently spoke to Rob Jupp (pictured), group chief executive at the Brightstar Group, about his career and his advice for other professionals looking to get ahead in financial services.
How did Rob Jupp get to where he is now?
No matter how meticulously you plan your career, Jupp said that reality is unlikely to adhere strictly to those plans. He emphasised the inevitability of unforeseen challenges that may jeopardise your goals, leading to moments of self-doubt and questioning.
“We launched Brightstar just over 12 years ago, and in the period since, the Brightstar Group has exceeded £5 billion of specialist lending and recorded a number of other significant achievements, including winning more than 130 industry awards,” he said.
However, he acknowledged that the path was far from straightforward, and underscored the importance of perseverance and resilience.
Jupp believes it is fundamental to maintain a clear ambition while acknowledging the need for adaptable plans.
Plans will inevitably require adjustments, but Jupp said individuals must persist in pursuing their objectives.
“Acknowledging the inherent difficulty in this journey is the ultimate reward that comes from unwavering determination and adaptability,” he said.
While the road may not always be smooth, Jupp added that the journey is immensely fulfilling for those who persist with clarity of ambition and a willingness to adapt.
What challenges has Rob Jupp overcome in his career?
Throughout his career, Jupp has faced numerous challenges. Reflecting on a notable instance, he said leading a business through the Global Financial Crisis in 2007 was a defining experience.
“While it initially felt like misfortune, it ultimately became one of my most profound lessons, providing firsthand insight into navigating a paradigm-shifting economic downturn,” he said.
Jupp acknowledged that this experience helped prepare him for the unique impact of COVID, the second defining instance of his career.
The key takeaway for Jupp from the Global Financial Crisis was the importance of reactive decision-making. Making a choice, committing to it, and implementing it swiftly emerged as crucial elements in successfully navigating those challenges.
Although there were transferable lessons between the crises of 2007 and 2020, Jupp said that the pandemic brought a different dynamic, unfolding rapidly and catching many off guard.
In the face of these swift changes, transitioning from projecting a record-breaking year to contemplating staff furloughs within days, Jupp emphasised the need for responsiveness.
Drawing from his experience in 2007, he underscored the detrimental nature of indecision during a crisis.
“Instead, I advocated for decisiveness; the worst thing one can do is become paralysed by indecision in tumultuous times,” he said.
What advice do you have for people just starting their careers?
Jupp believes that communication is crucial whatever your role, and added that improving one’s communication skills is a quick way to climb the corporate ladder.
“It can take guts to stick your neck out and communicate proactively, but it also demonstrates leadership,” he said.
However, Jupp said that if there is one lesson that anyone should take in their career, it is the importance of looking after people.
This, Jupp said, really is key and he added that it is fundamental people are respectful, open to new ideas and simply treat people as they would like to be treated.
“This may sound fluffy, but financial services is ultimately a people business and taking the right approach to others is not just the right thing to do, it will be the best way to progress your career,” he said.
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