To mark International Women’s Day, we spoke to MB Associates’ Case Manager Peggy Falconer about her extensive career in the mortgage industry, the people who inspired her and the advice she would give to women starting their careers. Her story is a reminder that passion, resilience and kindness can go a long way.
What do you enjoy most about working at MB Associates?
The team and the satisfaction of helping clients complete on their remortgages and especially first-time buyers with their first homes. The variety of the work I do. We also get to let our hair down at various social events throughout the year.
What makes it a positive place for women to build their careers?
Hard for me to answer this, as I have done the same thing for the past seven years. But I am happy doing that. We have always needed admin, and hopefully AI won’t change that. I feel valued and supported by my peers and management.
What has been a highlight of your career so far?
That after almost 40 years, I still enjoy what I do. I would also say being nominated for and making the shortlist at the Women’s Recognition Awards in the Mortgage Administrator of the Year category.
What advice would you give to women starting in this industry?
Be bold and positive, kind and considerate, and treat people as you would like to be treated. If you want something, go for it.
Who has inspired or supported you in your career journey?
My first admin manager, Sue, said, “Make sure you always write things down.” She was hardworking, first in, last out and thoroughly professional.
What would be one piece of advice you’d give your younger self?
Don’t party as a 15-year-old, which meant having to resit seven O Levels, resulting in the loss of a university degree place. What you do at 15 can have long-standing implications.
If you could have coffee with any inspiring woman (past or present), who would it be?
Michelle Obama – that woman is a rock star.