Echo Finance has formed a partnership with Mortgage Train Academy aimed at helping newly qualified advisers move more quickly from CeMAP certification into active, regulated practice.

The directly authorised, whole-of-market mortgage and protection brokerage said the collaboration will provide a structured route from qualification to day-to-day advisory work, at a time when many new entrants struggle to convert academic learning into commercial competence.

The intensive two-week programme has been designed to bridge the gap between achieving CeMAP status and operating confidently in a regulated environment.

It will focus on practical areas including client engagement, lender criteria, case packaging, sales processes, compliance expectations and business generation strategies.

The first course is scheduled to begin on April 20 in Gloucester and is already attracting strong early interest from newly qualified brokers seeking a clearer pathway into the profession.

Advisers who complete the programme successfully will be offered the opportunity to join Echo Finance under its directly authorised structure.

The role is fully remote, enabling advisers to serve clients across the UK while drawing on centralised compliance oversight, operational infrastructure and lead support.

INDUSTRY ISSUE

The partnership reflects a broader industry challenge, with newly qualified brokers often finding it difficult to translate examination success into sustainable production. By combining structured training with access to an established advisory framework, the two firms intend to shorten the time between qualification and consistent business levels.

Echo Finance has expanded to more than 70 brokers nationwide and continues to scale its national advisory model. The firm provides whole-of-market mortgage, protection and home finance advice across the UK within a fully regulated framework.

Lee Trett (pictured), co-founder and director at Echo Finance, said: “We are proud to partner with Mortgage Train Academy to create a clearer pathway into the profession.

“There is strong demand for high-quality advice across the UK, and supporting newly qualified brokers with the right infrastructure and oversight is essential. This partnership supports our growth plans as we continue building a national advisory presence.”

GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

Ricky Naylor, co-founder of Mortgage Train, added: “We’re proud to partner with Echo Finance, one of the UK’s most respected and trusted mortgage brokerages.

“What makes Echo Finance stand out, especially for new self-employed mortgage advisers, is their combination of industry experience, supportive culture and real opportunity for growth.

“They’ve been operating since 2012 and have built a strong reputation for integrity, professionalism and client satisfaction.”

Echo Finance expects the partnership to contribute to its wider expansion strategy, with a target of exceeding 120 brokers by the end of 2026.