"I was in and out of work looking for something that was me"
Corby Macdonald’s journey into the mortgage industry is anything but conventional. After dedicating 24 years to the Royal Navy, Macdonald (pictured) found himself in search of a new purpose.
“I was in and out of work looking for something that was me,” he recalled. “I was working in sales on a commission only basis and constantly looking for ‘me.’” His stint in sales, though commission-based, hinted at his potential in a different field. Then, something serendipitous happened that allowed him to enter the world of mortgage broking.
Getting into the industry
During the period of constantly searching for a job that was truly for him, an ad in The Grocer magazine caught Macdonald’s eye, promising lucrative rewards for mortgage advisors. More importantly, the role was something that he had an interest in.
“I always thought I needed a degree or something,” Macdonald said. “But this opportunity opened my eyes.”
Seizing the chance, he joined AWD Home Finance (Carrington Carr) and immersed himself in their rigorous training academy.
“They had a great training academy,” he shared. “After three months, I was ready to conquer the world!”
Macdonald’s career trajectory over the past 16 years has been marked by growth and resilience. From a trainee to working for various companies in both employed and self-employed capacities, he eventually established his own brokerage, Vickers Young, in 2012.
Motivation to continue as a broker
Macdonald’s motivations as a broker are rooted in his desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
“This job is one of the best you can have,” he claimed. “There is nothing better than helping a first-time buyer buy their first home! That impossible case that you have placed and helped someone achieve their aims, the knowledge that you have made a vital contribution to their lives.”
Another motivation for him is the desire to be better – to continue to grow as a person and as a broker.
“Every day is a school day in this industry,” he said. “There is always something changing, the landscape constantly moves, whether its interest rates, lenders criteria or your network if you are not directly authorised.”
Macdonald also acknowledges the challenges within the industry, from unrealistic employer expectations to networks that overlook the importance of brokers. However, he believes in effecting change from within.
“If you can supply ideas that are implemented to make things better, then it’s another win and more motivation to continue doing the right thing,” he pointed out.
Looking to the future
As Macdonald continues to expand his business and explore new markets, he remains driven by the same motivations that first drew him to the industry: a passion for helping others and a commitment to continuous growth.
Today, his Vickers Young team comprises eight advisors, and he is keen on expanding further.
“We are constantly looking for new talent to grow the business and to move us forward to becoming ‘the’ national brokerage,” he stated with ambition.
Looking ahead, Macdonald plans to venture into the commercial mortgage market, further driving the growth of Vickers Young. His commitment to the industry is paralleled by his role as the commercial director of Gresley Rovers, a local football club. This involvement, he noted, “helps to keep me sane.”
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