60 seconds with...Nigel Stockton
Share
Financial Services Director, Countrywide
Countrywide bought Mortgage Intelligence holdings last week - is it building an empire?
We will always be on the lookout for opportunities where we think we can add value. If we can see sense in adding a firm to our existing business then we will.
Were you in talks with any other networks before buying Mortgage Intelligence?
We talk to people all the time and look at what is happening in the market before deciding who to approach. But we have admired Mortgage Intelligence for a long time because we think its managing director Sally Laker is incredibly professional and someone we would like to work with.
How many advisers does Countrywide have now?
We have over 650 in our core business and Mortgage Intelligence has about 370 appointed representatives, so the acquisition brings Countrywide and Mortgage Intelligence’s advisers to over 1,000.
Is there any truth in rumours that you are looking to buy a high net worth London brokerage?
We don’t comment on market rumours. If I had bought firms from everyone I have been seen talking to in the last three months I would have taken over the world by now.
Will there be any crossover with the different aspects of your business?
Of course there will, but we will work through them as we move forward. We are looking at whether some savings can be made in our professional indemnity cover by making the exclusives we provide for Countrywide advisers available to Mortgage Intelligence’s ARs.
What has been the proudest moment of your career?
Becoming managing director of Birmingham Midshires in 2005, because it was the first time I had taken full responsibility for the profit and loss of a firm.
Who has influenced you in your career the most?
At the risk of sounding cheesy, my current boss Grenville Turner, chief executive officer of Countrywide. He has been an inspiration and it is great fun working with him.
What three items would you take to a desert island and why?
My iPod, because I couldn’t survive for long without music, a cigarette lighter so I could make fire and the Lord of the Rings because I would need something to keep me entertained.
What book are you reading?
1,000 Years Of Annoying The French by Stephen Clarke
If you enjoyed this article, sign up here to receive daily email updates from Mortgage Strategy and Follow @mortgagestrat
