Peter joined the CML and the Building Societies Association (BSA) in 1994, when both organisations shared a single secretariat. When the two organisations became independent of each other in 1997, he became deputy director general of the CML.
Peter's expertise goes well beyond the mortgage arena, and he is an acknowledged UK authority in the field of housing policy. During his time at the CML he has also held posts as a board member at the Housing Corporation and as a member of numerous inquiries and reviews including the Home Ownership Task Force and the Review of Housing and Regeneration.
Commenting on his decision, Williams said:"I have hugely enjoyed my time at both the BSA and the CML. It has been a demanding position but one which has brought me into close contact with both the industry and the government.
"I hope as my legacy I have helped to strengthen the CML's and the industry's position in the housing and mortgage markets across the UK, and to improve both its analytical base for policy and commercial decisions and its relationship with government.
"It is always sad to leave a good organisation but the time was right and I much look forward to continuing to work on strategic issues with mortgage lenders, housing providers and the government in my new capacity."
Michael Coogan, CML director general, added: "Peter has been an invaluable asset to integral part of the success of the CML, at a time when the mortgage market has gone from strength to strength. He has had a major influence on UK housing policy over many years. and he will be greatly missed. We are lucky that we will continue to get the benefit of his services on a consultancy basis, and we wish him all the very best as he branches out into a wider portfolio of new ventures, and are pleased he will continue to help us on a number of ongoing issues."
