At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Equity Release Council and shape the future of later life lending.
- Company: The Council is a key player in the UK equity release market.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence policy and make a real difference in people's lives.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on strategic oversight and engagement.
- Why this job: Join at a pivotal moment and drive standards in a growing market.
- Qualifications: Board-level experience and strong understanding of corporate governance required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 £ per year.
Company Description
The Council is the representative trade body for the UK equity release market. Plans that meet the Council’s standards come with six product safeguards: no negative equity guarantee; fixed or capped rates for life; the right to port; the right to make overpayments; secure tenure for life and the waiver of early repayment charges for if a borrower moves permanently into long term care. These safeguards are underpinned by mandatory independent legal advice which ensures the customer understands the risks and implications of the plan. In December 2025, the Council’s remit was broadened to all forms of later life lending falling within the regulated mortgage environment.
Role Description
We are seeking a new Chair to lead the Equity Release Council into its next chapter. This is an important role at a pivotal point for the organisation and the market it serves. The Council has long played a central role in setting standards and building confidence in equity release. It is now extending its influence across the broader later life lending landscape, as demand, policy interest and market complexity continue to grow.
We’re looking for a senior leader with:
- Significant board-level experience, including chairing or leading complex governance bodies
- Strong understanding of corporate governance, risk and strategic oversight
- Experience operating in regulated or public-trust environments
- The ability to engage effectively with policymakers, regulators, consumer groups and the financial services industry
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- A collaborative and pragmatic leadership style
Applications are now open
Deadline: 12 noon, Friday 29 May 2026
Chair employer: Equity Release Council
The Equity Release Council is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a pivotal organisation at the forefront of the later life lending market. With a strong commitment to corporate governance and consumer protection, the Council fosters a collaborative work culture that values strategic oversight and engagement with key stakeholders. Employees benefit from professional growth opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful impact in a rapidly evolving sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Understand their role in the equity release market and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets it.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for the role of Chair and how you can lead the Council into its next chapter. Confidence is key, so rehearse with a friend or in front of a mirror.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. Tailor your application to resonate with the Council's mission and values. Show us that you get what equity release is all about!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase your board-level experience and any relevant governance roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Chair position, so don’t hold back on those achievements!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly. Plus, it shows us you’re keen to engage with our platform right from the start.
How to prepare for a job interview at Equity Release Council
✨Know Your Governance
Make sure you brush up on corporate governance principles and the specific regulations surrounding equity release. Understanding these will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your expertise in leading complex governance bodies.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare to discuss how you would engage with various stakeholders, including policymakers and consumer groups. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully navigated these relationships, as this will show your ability to lead in a collaborative manner.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be ready to articulate your leadership style and how it aligns with the Council's mission. Use specific examples that highlight your pragmatic approach and how you've fostered collaboration in previous roles, especially in regulated environments.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the Council’s future direction and challenges in the equity release market. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the organisation aligns with your vision for leadership.
