On emigrating from the UK to New Zealand, I was looking to work in an environment providing advice and help to clients, using my extensive financial background from 27 years UK banking and a further 5 years in retail.

I joined Mortgage Link Kapiti in June 2006, once I had moved into the Paraparaumu area to live and subsequently purchased the business in November 2007.

Over the years I have gained personal satisfaction from helping clients achieve their lifestyle goals and be successful in business and purchasing their first homes – sometimes it’s like being part of the family.

We always survey our clients for “customer satisfaction” and are always amazed at how much the client appreciates the advice and service that we provide.

As well as helping clients on the residential mortgage side, I have extensive business and commercial lending experience from my banking days as a Senior Lending Manager and an Area Business Manager. I am, therefore, well able to help both private and business clients.

Over the years the Kapiti office has built up a reputation for friendly, helpful advice and as a result most of our business comes from satisfied clients referring on friends, colleagues and family. In addition we enjoy excellent relationships with our professional colleagues in town.

My career highlights todate, include achieving a “Distinction” in a Practice of Banking” examination paper – only one of six awarded in the country at that time! Also a much coveted two-year secondment to The Royal Jubilee & Princes Trust, a charitable organisation helping disadvantaged, young people and groups. I've recently retired as Rotary Club treasurer after three years and I am now President elect Nominee.

On the personal front, I enjoy watching most sports, tramping – having completed the Milford Track, Queen Charlotte Track, Abel Tasman, Routeburn and the Tongariro Crossing since arriving in NZ.