The Accord Mortgages Growth Series Podcast

#135 - Mortgage Mentors: From Reluctant Recruit to Industry Leader with Richard Merrett

In episode #135 of the Growth Series podcast's Mortgage Mentors series, Jeremy Duncombe, Managing Director at Accord Mortgage speaks with Richard Merrett, Managing Director at Alexander Hall about his unexpected entry into financial services and the experiences that shaped his leadership journey. Richard reflects on how a temporary role pulled him into an industry he once aimed to avoid, and how he came to realise that mortgage advice is rooted in connection, empathy and helping people achieve meaningful life goals. He talks about the value of stepping outside familiar surroundings, the lessons learned during his time away from Alexander Hall, and how those moments influenced the leader he is today. The discussion highlights the importance of mentoring, creating environments where advisers can develop, and why diverse thinking strengthens teams. Richard also touches on his work with AMI and the Green Mortgage Advice Initiative, driven by a desire to contribute to the wider industry.  

#134 - Mortgage Mentors: What Emotional Intelligence Brings to Mortgages with Clare Beardmore

In episode #134 of the Growth Series podcast's Mortgage Mentors series, Jeremy Duncombe, Managing Director at Accord Mortgage speaks with Clare Beardmore, Director of Legal & General Mortgage Club, about her inspiring rise through the mortgage industry.  From her early days at Leek United Building Society to her leadership role at L&G,  Clare shares her personal and professional journey shaped by resilience, emotional intelligence and a people-first approach to leadership. Together, they explore the role of emotional intelligence in building teams, overcoming imposter syndrome, and navigating a rapidly changing industry. Clare's reflections on mentorship, collaboration, and finding balance between career and personal life make this a must-listen for anyone looking to grow in their profession.  

#133 - Mastering the Commercial Mortgages Market

In episode #133 of the Accord Mortgages Growth Series podcast, host Mike Davies, Head of Lending at YBS Commercial Mortgages, speaks with Matthew Martin, Director at Align Property Finance. They explore the changing commercial mortgage market, from the rise of challenger lenders to the importance of building long-term client relationships. The episode covers how interest rates and sector trends are shaping activity, why HMOs are gaining traction, and the role of technology in streamlining processes without losing the human touch. Deregulation and its potential impact are also discussed, with Matthew sharing a cautiously optimistic outlook for the future.  

#132 - Mortgage Mentors: From Stocks to Mortgage Tech Solutions with James Tucker

In episode #132 of the Growth Series podcast's Mortgage Mentors series, Jeremy Duncombe, Managing Director at Accord Mortgage chats with James Tucker, CEO of Twenty7Tec, about his journey from stockbroking to leading one of the UK's top mortgage tech firms. James shares lessons on resilience, leadership and innovation, and how embracing technology and data can future-proof mortgage advice without losing the human touch. He also reflects on mentorship, community impact, and how golf and mountaineering help him stay grounded outside of work.  

#131 - Broker Talks: Broker Firms Utilising A.I

In episode #131 of the Growth Series podcast, host Iain Cunningham, Strategic Partnerships and Propositions Manager at Accord Mortgages, is joined by Liz Syms, CEO and Founder of Connect Mortgages and Connect for Intermediaries. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the mortgage industry and what it means for brokers. Liz shares her journey into AI adoption, from transcription tools that free up client conversations to compliance systems that speed up file reviews and reduce errors. She also discusses how portals and chatbots are enhancing the customer experience while stressing the irreplaceable value of human advice. Packed with practical insights, this episode highlights how brokers can embrace an "AI first" mindset to boost efficiency, stay competitive, and focus on what matters most—building trust and delivering personalised guidance.