The Intermediary – May 2025 - Flipbook - Page 31
MEET THE BDM
What makes Central
Trust stand out?
One thing is our commitment to
continuous improvement. We are
always looking for ways to enhance
our products and services to better
serve brokers and their clients. Our
dedication to putting the customer
first is at the heart of everything we
do, ensuring that we always operate
with integrity and go the extra mile.
Another standout factor is our
longevity and resilience. Central
Trust has been lending since 1988,
and during that time, we have
remained steadfast. While many
lenders have withdrawn from the
market during uncertain times, we
have maintained our commitment
to providing lending solutions,
offering stability to brokers and
borrowers alike.
What are the challenges
facing BDMs right now?
The financial landscape is always
evolving, and one of the biggest
challenges is the competitive nature
of the market. High street lenders
are broadening their offerings and
expanding their criteria, making it
more difficult for specialist lenders to
differentiate themselves.
A crucial part of my role is
demonstrating where we can add
value. This means ensuring brokers
fully understand our unique selling
points (USPs), such as our flexible
lending criteria. Helping brokers to
identify the right opportunities for
their clients is an ongoing challenge,
but also a rewarding part of the job.
challenges, and work together to
find solutions that help their clients
secure the right financial products.
Beyond relationship-building, the
role also provides the opportunity
to contribute to the company’s
growth by feeding back insights from
brokers. By identifying gaps in the
market and areas for improvement, I
can play a part in shaping the future
of our lending propositions. This not
only benefits the business, but also
strengthens our offering, creating
a positive cycle of development
and improvement.
How do you work with
brokers to ensure the best
What is something
outcomes for borrowers?
outside of work that
Collaboration is key to ensuring
the best outcomes for borrowers.
I make it a priority to be available
to brokers, offering guidance and
support whenever they need it. This
includes helping brokers understand
our criteria and working with our
underwriting team to ensure a
smooth process.
One of the most valuable things I
can do is help brokers package their
cases correctly from the outset.
By ensuring that all necessary
information is provided upfront, we
can speed up the decision-making
process and improve customer
experiences. I also keep brokers
informed about any changes to our
products so that they can offer their
clients the most up-to-date advice.
By providing a high level of
service and maintaining strong
communication, I help brokers
deliver the best possible outcomes
for their clients.
What are the
What advice would
opportunities for BDMs?
you give to potential
One of the most rewarding aspects
of the role is the ability to build
strong, lasting relationships with
brokers across the country. Every
day presents a new opportunity to
meet new people, understand their
advice from an experienced
mortgage adviser. With interest rates
fluctuating and lenders regularly
updating their criteria, it is essential
to have someone who can navigate
the options and help borrowers make
informed decisions.
Finally, I would encourage
borrowers to think long-term. While
short-term affordability is crucial,
considering future financial stability
is just as important. Ensuring
that mortgage payments remain
manageable in the long run can
provide peace of mind and prevent
financial difficulties further down
the line.
borrowers?
The mortgage market is more
complex than ever, and my biggest
piece of advice for potential
borrowers is to seek professional
people might like to
know about you?
When I was younger, I entered a
competition run by Manchester
City football club to name their new
mascot. My brother and I submitted
ideas. He went with ‘Cheater
Chester’, and I – with the help of my
dad – suggested ‘Moonchester’.
My suggestion was chosen and
remains the official mascot to this
day, which is my claim to fame.
Although people don’t believe me at
first, I am always happy to pull out
the proof! ●
Central Trust
Established in 1988
Products
First and Second Charges for:
◆ Residential mortgages
◆ Consumer buy-to-let
◆ Family let
◆ Let-to-buy
Contact details
Liam.Billings@centraltrust.co.uk
May 2025 | The Intermediary
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