Little has worked in financial services for 25 years, specialising in the mortgage and protection sector.
Prior to joining the society he was head of distribution at Assurant Solutions, while formerly he was national account manager for various mortgage brands within HBOS and Lloyds Banking Group.
Keith Richards, chief executive of the Society of Mortgage Professionals, said: “The MMR highlighted the importance of professional mortgage advice with a flight to quality and better consumer protection.
“Now there is an opportunity for the profession to influence the future course of direction and we are working collaboratively with other organisations, including AMI and CML, to deliver better outcomes for consumers and our members alike, thereby reducing the need for regulatory intervention.
“Gary’s experience and passion will be key in ensuring we deliver against our aspirations for the profession.”
Little will initially focus on developing the society’s proposition to better support its members in their professional development, while he will also assist in raising consumer awareness of the benefits of professional advice services.
He said: “I am passionate about the mortgage and protection sector and now, with the Society of Mortgage Professionals, have a great opportunity to contribute on a wider basis in the drive towards higher standards and improved consumer outcomes.”
He is currently chairing a series of ‘Great mortgage market revival’ roadshows running at eight regional centres throughout June which, he said, “is providing me with a great opportunity to listen to members...and get a first-hand account of what they see as priorities for the future”.
Member feedback has confirmed the appetite for professional standards without regulatory intervention, as the society is planning to help advisers from a qualification, a technical and a business relevant CPD perspective.
The Society of Mortgage Professionals was created by The Chartered Insurance Institute in 2005 to develop those working in the mortgage market professionally across lending, administration, advice and broking and associated support functions.
