| Tell us about your job and what’s involved on a typical day?
The thing that I love most about my job is that there is no such thing as a typical day. The purpose of my role is to identify development needs which support the corporate objectives, design training solutions, implement development programs and evaluate success.
In the past year alone, apart from running induction programmes for all new recruits to FM and hosting a variety of training initiatives, I have been working towards IIP accreditation and submissions for industry awards.
What previous roles and experiences led you to your current role?
Throughout my lengthy career in financial services, I have worked for Standard life, Scottish Amicable, Scottish Friendly, Zurich and Home of Choice, all in a Sales training and ultimately Training and Competence Role.
I was also self-employed for a number of years running a training firm and financial planning firm with my husband.
On the basis that you are only as good as your last sale or training session I continued to advance my industry knowledge and skills not only from a credibility factor but also to keep things interesting!
What do you like most about working for First Mortgage?
I know that we talk about being part of a family but I genuinely feel that is the case. However, for those of you who are familiar with the Sunday Post comic characters, I suppose I am more like a “Maw Broon” figure in the FM family!
What do you consider the key challenges for the mortgage industry this coming year?
My response is given from the position of adviser development and so the most imminent challenge will be the ramifications of the Mortgage Credit Directive effective from March 2016.
If you could be anyone for a day, who would you be?
I wouldn’t swap places with anyone – even for a day. That would imply that I am discontent with being me and I’m not!
What’s on your desk?
Very little given I “Hot Desk”. However, at the moment I am “housing” a malteser advent calendar and a box of green tea as well as my laptop.
If you could, what advice would you give your younger self?
Success doesn’t come immediately. You have to stay focused, work hard and keep your resolve strong even when you face setbacks. The harder the struggle you have had, the better you will appreciate your success.
What did want to be when you were a child?
An air hostess. However, the closest I have got to it was dressing up at the conference. However, that’s another story!
What’s the worst piece of advice you’ve been given?
I honestly don’t think I have been given any.
Who was your first celebrity crush?
Cat Stevens
And finally, who is your current mortgage with?
Halifax |
