Underwriter

Underwriter

Maidenhead Full-Time 28800 - 43200 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: As an Underwriter, assess and approve mortgage applications while ensuring compliance with lending policies.
  • Company: Kensington Mortgages has over 25 years of experience in providing specialist mortgage solutions.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a fully remote role with flexible working, personal growth opportunities, and a supportive culture.
  • Why this job: Join a team that values integrity, diversity, and making a positive impact on customers' lives.
  • Qualifications: 3+ years of underwriting experience with a minimum mandate of £200k; strong communication skills required.
  • Other info: All offers are subject to background checks; must commit to the start date of 29th September.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.

Overview

We\’re Hiring: Mortgage Underwriters Location: Fully Remote (Including all training) Type: Full Time, permanent Reports to: Underwriting Team Manager Salary – Competitive Start Date – 11th May 2026

Are you an experienced mortgage Underwriter looking to make a real impact? We’re on the lookout for motivated professionals to join our dynamic Lending Operations team at Kensington Mortgages. This is more than just a job, it’s a chance to be at the heart of our underwriting function, helping us deliver responsible, specialist lending with integrity. If you’re passionate about making a difference and thrive in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment, we’d love to hear from you.

Overall Purpose of Job

As an Underwriter, you’ll be responsible for assessing and approving Residential and Buy-to-Let mortgage applications, ensuring they align with our lending policy, FCA standards, and Treating Customers Fairly (TCF) principles. You’ll be a key player in risk-based decision-making, maintaining top-tier underwriting standards and building strong relationships with brokers.

About Us

For over 25 years, Kensington Mortgages has been a pioneer in specialist mortgage solutions, offering hope to customers who may not fit the mould of traditional lending. We call it the Kensington Difference — a commitment to understanding each customer’s unique story and providing tailored solutions when others won’t. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Barclays Bank UK PLC, we operate with the highest standards of service and integrity, fully authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Key Accountabilities

  • Underwrite and approve mortgage applications within your mandate (250k+), ensuring quality and compliance.
  • Escalate cases outside mandate with clear rationale.
  • Communicate effectively with brokers, providing timely updates and clarity.
  • Support User Acceptance Testing (UAT) phases.
  • Champion TCF and responsible lending principles.
  • Collaborate with the completions team to drive operational efficiency.
  • Uphold our Code of Business Ethics and support financial crime prevention.
  • Stay up to date with HR policies, regulations, and underwriting standards.
  • Meet service level agreements and handle complaints professionally.
  • Contribute to process improvements and ad hoc projects.

Experience, Knowledge, Skills

  • Minimum 3 years experience in Prime and Specialist lending with a minimum mandate of 250k+.
  • Strong communication skills and confidence in broker engagement.
  • Deep understanding of the mortgage intermediary market and FCA permissions.
  • Awareness of organised fraud and risk mitigation controls.
  • A proactive, adaptable mindset with a collaborative spirit.
  • Solid grasp of responsible lending and regulatory frameworks.
  • Experience underwriting residential and buy to let cases

Desirable Experience, Knowledge, Skills

  • Experience with niche Buy-to-Let lending (HMOs, light refurbishments, multi-unit properties).
  • Knowledge of Second Charge lending.
  • CeMAP qualification.

Why Join Kensington Mortgages

At Kensington Mortgages, we believe our employees are the heart of our success. We are committed to creating a supportive and flexible work environment that values personal growth, professional development and a healthy work-life balance. Our inclusive culture respects and celebrates diversity in all its forms, ensuring that everyone feels welcome, valued and understood. We recognise and appreciate differences in thinking, learning styles, gender, race, identity, ethnic origins and sexual expression. We are an inclusive, neurodiversity-friendly employer committed to creating a supportive environment where all employees can thrive. At Kensington Mortgages, our people are our greatest asset. We offer:

  • A supportive and flexible work environment.
  • Opportunities for personal growth and professional development.
  • A culture that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and neurodiversity.
  • A workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered.

Ready to make a difference?

If you’re passionate about providing an exceptional service and want to join a team that values your contributions, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and be part of the Kensington Mortgages family and help us to continue making a positive impact in the lives of our customers.

Important Information

All offers of employment are subject to background checks including DBS, credit, and Right to Work verification. Start Date: Monday 11th May — Please ensure availability for training and avoid long periods of annual leave during the initial onboarding phase.

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Underwriter employer: Kensington Mortgages

Kensington Mortgages is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, offering a fully remote work environment that fosters flexibility and inclusivity. With a commitment to treating customers fairly and a culture that celebrates diversity, employees are empowered to thrive while making a meaningful impact in the lives of customers seeking specialist mortgage solutions. Join us to be part of a supportive team that values your contributions and encourages continuous development.
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Contact Detail:

Kensington Mortgages Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Underwriter

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with Kensington Mortgages' unique approach to lending, known as the 'Kensington Difference'. Understanding their commitment to responsible lending will help you align your answers during interviews and demonstrate that you share their values.

✨Tip Number 2

Brush up on your knowledge of the mortgage intermediary market and FCA regulations. Being well-versed in these areas will not only boost your confidence but also show that you're proactive and ready to contribute from day one.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your experience with Prime and Specialist lending, particularly any cases where you've had to make tough underwriting decisions. Real-life examples will illustrate your expertise and decision-making skills effectively.

✨Tip Number 4

Network with current or former employees of Kensington Mortgages if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the interview process.

We think you need these skills to ace Underwriter

Mortgage Underwriting
Risk Assessment
Knowledge of FCA Regulations
Communication Skills
Broker Relationship Management
Attention to Detail
Decision-Making Skills
Understanding of Responsible Lending
Time Management
Proactive Problem Solving
Adaptability
Team Collaboration
Knowledge of Prime and Specialist Lending
Fraud Awareness
CeMAP Qualification (Desirable)

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in underwriting, especially in Prime and Specialist lending. Emphasise your mandate experience and any specific achievements that align with the role at Kensington Mortgages.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for responsible lending and your understanding of the mortgage intermediary market. Mention how your values align with Kensington's commitment to integrity and treating customers fairly.

Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on your communication skills and ability to build relationships with brokers. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed multiple underwriting functions and adhered to quality standards.

Showcase Continuous Learning: Mention any relevant qualifications, such as CeMAP, and your commitment to staying informed about changes in regulations and lending criteria. This demonstrates your proactive approach and dedication to professional development.

How to prepare for a job interview at Kensington Mortgages

✨Know Your Underwriting Basics

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of mortgage underwriting principles, especially those related to Residential and Buy-to-Let applications. Understanding the lending policy and FCA standards will show that you're serious about the role.

✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills

Since the role involves building relationships with brokers, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in past roles, especially during application discussions.

✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Abilities

Be ready to discuss how you've handled complex cases or challenges in your previous underwriting experience. Highlight your ability to make risk-based decisions while adhering to quality standards and TCF principles.

✨Familiarise Yourself with the Company Culture

Research Kensington Mortgages and their commitment to responsible lending and customer service. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs, particularly regarding integrity and treating customers fairly.

Underwriter
Kensington Mortgages
Location: Maidenhead
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