SMP appoints chair and vice chair

Society of Mortgage Professionals (SMP) has appointed Carlos Thibaut (pictured) as chair, while Liz Syms has taken on the role of vice chair.

Thibaut was group managing director of Lifetime Group before his role as chief executive of customer relationship management software provider 360Dotnet.

He first joined the board of the SMP in 2019, and replaces David Thomas as chair, who is stepping down from the role after two years.

In 2012, Syms set up the specialist mortgage network Connect for Intermediaries, which supports more than 250 mortgage advisers in the mainstream market and in specialist areas such as complex buy-to-let, commercial and bridging.

Thomas said: “I was honoured to be invited to take the inaugural chair of the Society of Mortgage Professionals some two years ago, during which time we have created a clear structure while steering through a pandemic.

“I’m delighted to pass the chair to Carlos, who I know will drive the society further forward.”

Thibaut added: “Following the illustrious David Thomas as chair of the Society of Mortgage Professionals will be a considerable challenge but one that I’m looking forward to.

“We have an important role to play in supporting and promoting professionalism.

"Championing the benefits of seeking out professional advice must be at the heart of what we do.

“We have an extremely talented, experienced and skilled board and I am genuinely excited about the opportunities for advisers, professional advice and the Society over the coming years.”

Syms said: “Helping advisers to increase their skills and professionalism while championing the consumer is the key aim and differentiator of the Society of Mortgage Professionals.

“I am really pleased to be part of the board and I am looking forward as the vice-chair to supporting Carlos, to increase the profile of the good work that the society does.”