Working in Mortgages announces new charter

Three years since its launch, Working in Mortgages (WIM) has announced a new chapter with a clear mission, a stronger purpose and smarter approach.

A collaboration between the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA) and the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries (AMI), WIM says it has "pressed the reset button but this isn’t about a refresh - it’s a redefinition".

At the heart of its relaunch is a new purpose: “To make the mortgage industry a fairer and more accessible place to work and do business with.”

WIM says the new defined purpose "will drive every project, every conversation, every decision - all aligned with that goal".

Going forward the initiative will focus on two core pillars: Attract and Retain, with a focus on how to draw new talent into the sector and ensure an environment is created where people belong and thrive.

As part of its refresh, WIM is launching the Working in Mortgages Diversity and Inclusion Charter which outlines clear commitments for volunteers - transparency, accountability, and tangible outcomes key to building real impact.

With new leadership across WIM there is a call for new volunteers from across the sector to get involved at https://workinginmortgages.org.uk. 

Dom Scott, managing director of Lifetime Connect, said: “AMI and IMLA combining to drive this project forward is a fantastic endorsement of its relevance. We should be controlling the narrative of our industry - how we describe and promote ourselves - to attract and retain the best talent. We invite everyone connected to this industry to contribute to the work that lies ahead. The more we collaborate, the better the outcomes.”

Nicola Goldie, head of strategic partnerships and growth at Aldermore, commented: “I am thrilled to be taking on the role of Chair of Working in Mortgages and am excited to lead the next step on the WIM journey to build on the remarkable work accomplished so far. I want to say a huge thankyou to all the volunteers across IMLA and the taskforces who have contributed their time and effort to this so far. Your dedication has been invaluable, and I look forward to continuing to work with you.

"As we move forward, I am eager to welcome new faces from across our industry to get involved and I am. Together, we will build on our successes and strive for even more positive change.”

Stephanie Charman (pictured), chief executive of AMI, added: “It is important, now more than ever, we keep momentum behind Working in Mortgages and drive the need for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the workplace. AMI recognises that many people currently ‘fall into’ financial services rather than actively pursue it. We need to better educate people about the purpose-driven nature of the mortgage industry and the meaningful role we play in people’s lives. It’s time to build an industry people are proud to join - and empowered to stay in.”