The Equity Release Council has appointed Tracy Gorbutt-Powell as head of risk, policy and compliance as it widens its focus across the later life lending market.
Gorbutt-Powell (main picture) will report to Kelly Melville-Kelly, deputy chief executive and director of risk, policy and compliance, and will work alongside Laura Gibson, head of membership and engagement, and Tom Brett, head of commercial and business development.
The trade body said the appointment would add to its governance, oversight and policy capability at a time when it is extending its remit beyond equity release to cover all forms of regulated later life lending.
That broader role follows a recent restructure at the Council, which has sought to position itself more firmly across the wider later life sector while retaining its existing standards framework for the equity release market.
Gorbutt-Powell joins with more than 20 years’ experience in financial services, spanning banking, mortgages, protection and broker networks. Her background includes compliance roles across both first and second line of defence functions, with an emphasis on customer outcomes and risk management.
She has previously worked at RBS Group, including NatWest, as well as HSBC and Lloyds, before moving into the intermediary market with broker networks including Mortgage Advice Bureau and HL Partnership.
Jim Boyd, chief executive of the Equity Release Council, said: “Tracy’s extensive experience across lender and intermediary markets, combined with her compliance expertise, will strengthen our governance and support the next phase of our growth.
“Tracy’s appointment ensures we continue to uphold the high standards and protections that define our market.”
Kelly Melville-Kelly, deputy chief executive of the Equity Release Council, said: “Tracy brings a wealth of knowledge across risk, policy and compliance, alongside a clear commitment to positive customer outcomes.
“As we expand our remit across later life lending, her expertise will be key navigating an increasingly complex regulatory landscape while maintaining the standards our members and consumers expect.”
Gorbutt-Powell added: “The later life lending market is evolving rapidly, and strong governance and clear standards are vital to its sustainable growth.
“I look forward to working with the team and our members to support positive outcomes for consumers and ensure the market continues to develop responsibly.”
