Monica Bradley’s ascent in the financial world is a tale of ambition, expertise, and unwavering commitment to service. As the Owner and Managing Director of MB Associates, her story is not just about financial acumen but also about the personal touch she brings to her business.
Reflecting on her beginnings, Monica shares, “I started out in the world of finance in 1989.” Her career trajectory is unique; after a year of traditional employment, she embraced the path of self-employment. “Back then, I was a wealth investment and pensions advisor,” she recounts. This foundational period set the stage for her future endeavours.
In 2002, a significant shift occurred when Monica moved her operations to larger premises. This move coincided with a period where compliance became paramount, prompting a company transition. It was during this time that Monica’s business began to flourish in the mortgage sector. The growth was remarkable, evolving into a robust team of 12 advisors and 28 staff members.
Monica’s approach to her company is deeply rooted in her early experiences. She understands the importance of specialisation in an ever-changing financial landscape. “You can’t specialise in every single area, that’s a thing of the past,” she asserts. This insight has led her to cultivate a team of specialist advisors, each an expert in their respective fields, from equity release to portfolio management for landlords. Through this expertise, the MB Associates team are able to deliver quality insights to their clientele, ensuring they are up-to-date and aware of the most relevant information.
The success of MB Associates is built on more than just financial services; it’s built on relationships that span decades. Monica takes pride in the fact that some clients have been with her for 30 years. “We really do help generations of families,” she says. This loyalty is a testament to the trust and reliability that Bradley and her team have established.
Looking ahead, the Managing Director is focused on growth and business innovation. With the launch of a specialist and commercial side in June, MB Associates is set to expand its offerings to meet the diverse needs of professional landlords and the property market. Moreover, Monica is passionate about bringing fresh talent into the industry, mentoring them to become the next generation of advisors.
The Broker’s Edge
When it comes to industry challenges, Monica is acutely aware of the complexities. She believes that the role of a broker is crucial, especially when navigating the financial market. She goes on to explain the concept of ‘mortgage management,’ a proactive approach ensuring clients secure the best possible rate up to the point of exchange. “When lenders pull rates, we move fast,” she reveals, underscoring the urgency with which her team must act to secure favourable rates for their clients.
“Rate changes and market volatility are just some examples of the aspects we have to keep an eye on,” she says, referring to the unpredictable nature of the market and the sudden withdrawal of rates by banks without notice. In light of this, Monica stresses the importance of educating clients about the market intricacies. “It isn’t just about the bank base rate,” Monica clarifies. The broader economic climate, including inflation rates and global events, can significantly impact swap rates and, consequently, the mortgage rates. What’s happening all over the world has a true impact,” she says.
But despite the continuous hurdles, Monica remains optimistic about the value brokers provide. “A broker really will help,” she asserts, echoing the sentiments of consumer champions like Martin Lewis. Brokers, the Managing Director believes, offer a comprehensive view of the market. They present clients with the best options, help them understand the available choices, and guide clients through the ever-changing tides of the mortgage market.
Forging a Legacy of Client Care
As the conversation draws to a close, the Managing Director elaborates on what makes the ideal leader in the industry and her own approach. Leadership, according to Monica, is about setting a standard and ensuring it permeates every level of the company. “Leading from the front and building the culture down from the top,” is how she describes her form. Monica’s ethos is clear: every client deserves equal treatment, regardless of the size of their mortgage. “No client gets treated any differently,” she states firmly.
When it comes to the legacy of MB Associates, Monica envisions the company as a paragon of integrity and resilience in the mortgage brokerage industry. “I would like it to be a very well-known and respectable high integrity broker,” she asserts, emphasising the firm’s commitment to helping clients secure and maintain their homes under any life circumstances.
But Monica’s vision extends beyond mere transactions; it’s about building lasting relationships and ensuring clients have a reliable point of contact. “We are always at the other end of the phone and the other end of an email for the clients,” she says, highlighting the importance of accessibility and doing right by the client.
With over 30 years of loyalty and expertise, Monica’s leadership has fostered a culture of client servicing that resonates throughout the company. The future looks bright for MB Associates, with expansions on the horizon and a focus on specialist lending—a testament to Monica’s forward-thinking and adaptability in an ever-evolving industry.
