Underwriting Team Leader

BTL (Buy-to-Let) Underwriting Team Leader

Watford Reports To: Underwriting ManagerJob SummaryThe BTL Underwriting Team Leader will oversee a team of Buy-to-Let Underwriters, ensuring efficient, accurate, and compliant underwriting processes. This role involves leading and supporting the team in assessing, reviewing, and approving BTL mortgage applications, driving high standards in risk assessment, customer service, and regulatory compliance. The Team Leader will also be responsible for mentoring and developing team members, optimizing workflows, and collaborating with other departments to enhance service quality and operational efficiency.Key Responsibilities1. Team Leadership and Development

• Lead, manage, and motivate a team of BTL underwriters, ensuring high performance and productivity.• Provide guidance, training, and mentoring to develop the team’s technical skills and underwriting expertise.• Conduct regular team meetings and one-on-ones to review individual performance, set objectives, and provide constructive feedback.• Foster a positive and collaborative team environment that aligns with the company’s values and objectives.2. Underwriting Management• Oversee the end-to-end underwriting process for BTL mortgage applications, ensuring compliance with internal and regulatory standards.• Conduct complex underwriting assessments and provide approvals or recommendations as necessary.• Monitor and manage underwriting decisions, ensuring risk mitigation and sound lending practices.• Review and sign off on cases within the team’s delegated lending authority and escalate cases as needed.3. Quality Control and Compliance• Ensure that all underwriting processes adhere to regulatory guidelines and company policies.• Implement quality assurance measures to ensure consistency, accuracy, and risk compliance in underwriting decisions.• Conduct audits of team members’ work to identify training needs or areas for improvement.• Stay updated with regulatory changes and industry trends to provide guidance on policy updates and necessary team adjustments.4. Process Improvement and Reporting• Continuously evaluate and refine underwriting workflows to improve efficiency and productivity.• Collaborate with the Underwriting Manager and other stakeholders to drive process improvements.• Prepare and analyze team performance reports, identifying trends, gaps, and opportunities for optimization.• Contribute to strategic initiatives for process automation and operational improvements.5. Stakeholder Engagement• Act as a point of contact between the underwriting team and other departments (e.g., Sales, Risk, Legal).• Resolve complex issues or escalations in a professional and timely manner.• Participate in cross-functional projects aimed at enhancing customer service and underwriting efficiency.Key Skills and Qualifications• Experience: Minimum 5 years of underwriting experience, with at least 2 years in a BTL underwriting role. Previous experience in a team leadership or supervisory role is strongly preferred.• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business, or a related field is desirable, though significant experience may be considered in place of formal qualifications.• Certifications: CeMAP or equivalent qualification preferred.• Knowledge: Strong knowledge of BTL mortgage products, underwriting guidelines, and regulatory requirements.• Skills:• Leadership and team management, with the ability to motivate and develop team members.• Analytical and decision-making skills, with a solid understanding of risk management principles.• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging effectively with both internal and external stakeholders.• Proficiency in underwriting software and other relevant financial systems.• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.compliance issues.Benefits• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses• Comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare and retirement plans• Professional development opportunities and support for relevant certifications• Flexible work arrangements (if applicable)Application ProcessPlease submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your experience and suitability for the role. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.This job specification is intended to outline the primary responsibilities and qualifications for the BTL Underwriting Team Leader role, though duties may evolve in line with the company’s needs.