Mortgage Underwriter

Location: West Malling, Kent
Working Pattern: Office based with 1 day working from home per week
Salary: 35,000 - 42,000
Reports to: Underwriting Team Leader

We are looking for a Mortgage Underwriter to join a specialist lending company based in West Malling, Kent. The successful candidate will be responsible for underwriting mortgage applications accurately while ensuring compliance with lending criteria, regulatory requirements and the company's risk appetite.

This role requires strong analytical judgement, effective pipeline management, and the ability to build productive relationships with internal teams, brokers, and external partners.

• Underwrite mortgage applications to a high standard, ensuring adherence to lending criteria, risk appetite and compliance expectations.

• Interpret CAIS/credit data, financial statements and supporting documents for both individual and company applications.

• Assess income and review a range of case types including standard properties and multi-unit properties (MUP).

• Provide clear and well-reasoned underwriting decisions, including referrals to senior mandate holders or Credit Committee where required.

• Manage and prioritise a personal pipeline to ensure service levels are achieved while supporting colleagues when required.

• Work closely with internal teams including Sales, Risk, Compliance, Pre-Offer and Post-Offer teams to ensure smooth case progression.

• Communicate professionally with brokers, valuers and external stakeholders, providing accurate updates and guidance throughout the process.

• Contribute to continuous improvement by supporting training, sharing knowledge and adapting to developments in the specialist lending market and regulatory environment.

• Strong understanding of the mortgage process and the wider mortgage market.

• Experience within Buy-to-Let, Residential or Commercial mortgage underwriting environments.

• Proven ability to assess complex cases with strong attention to detail and sound judgement.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong analytical, planning and problem-solving abilities.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.

• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience working to defined service standards and deadlines.

• Strong team player with a collaborative approach and commitment to shared goals.

• Experience assessing standard properties, multi-unit properties (MUP), trading limited companies, SPVs and holiday lets.

• Previous experience holding an underwriting mandate or the capability to progress towards one.

• Proactive approach to personal development and process improvement.

• Positive and adaptable attitude towards change and evolving regulatory requirements.

• Demonstrates initiative, professionalism and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes.