Last but not least is Joe Grace. Something of an MT Finance veteran, Joe – like his fellow BDM David Kingham – joined the company in 2019 as a Business Relationship Manager before moving into his current role in 2022. He took time out of his busy schedule to talk to us about personal achievements, unexpected career moves and going back to his sales roots.
You’ve been a BDM for over two years now, what are you most proud of so far?
To be honest, how far I’ve come in the industry. I’m at a place now where I feel like I’m established and confident in what I do. MT Finance is such a well-known bridging company and to feel cemented in what I’m doing is an achievement in itself for me – I’m really proud of that.
There’s been a lot of economic uncertainty since you started your role. Can you share one of the most useful insights you’ve gained during this time?
Regardless of what’s happening in the economy, I think bridging will always bounce back and will always be an option for a lot of business owners, portfolio landlords and homeowners. People have been quick to take advantage of opportunities – even with some of the uncertainty around mortgage rates in the last couple years and bridging was a good option to secure a fixed rate whilst the market was unpredictable. This is where I think I make an impact and so I need to be there to provide solutions.
You were previously in the new business team at MT Finance, how did this help to prepare you for working as a BDM?
In short, it taught me everything I know about specialist finance. I was a fresh face to the industry when I started as a Business Relationship Manager in January 2019 and the knowledge and experience I gained during this time laid the foundations for what I do now. I remember even trying to grasp loan-to-value at the start! Fortunately, times have changed and now I know this inside out, which our broker partners will be pleased to hear!
What do you enjoy most about being a BDM?
It’s quite enjoyable to represent both the lender and the broker. People lean on you for an outcome and if something doesn’t go as planned I’m the first point of call. I have to fight shield and sword for everyone involved. I like being someone that people can depend on. A BDM is also a great opportunity to meet loads of people in the industry, from broker partners to solicitors and even the actual clients.
What fact would people be surprised to know about you?
When I joined MT Finance I was also offered a role in the London Fire Brigade. I did all the necessary written and physical tests but I’m very glad I turned it down – I 100% made the right choice picking specialist finance as a career!
If you’re based in London or the South East and have a question about specialist finance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Joe. He’s available to talk through and bridging or buy-to-let cases and can be contacted on 07309718034 or via email. You can also click here to book in a visit with him.