Mortgage and protection firm Vickers Young has joined the Stonebridge network as it accelerates its plans for sustained growth.

Founded in 2012 by managing director Corby Macdonald, the Leicestershire business has grown from a sole adviser practice into a team of 12. It now plans to recruit up to 12 advisers each year as part of an ambitious expansion strategy.

The firm’s decision to leave Mortgage Advice Bureau was driven by a need for a network that could better support its long-term objectives. Macdonald said the credibility of Stonebridge and its enthusiasm to back the firm’s growth were central to the move.

AUTHORATIVE VOICE

The appointment comes during a period of momentum for Stonebridge. The network recently secured long-term partnerships with The Mortgage Shop and Bennison Brown, reinforcing its position in the intermediary market.

Stonebridge is one of the UK’s largest mortgage and protection networks, having arranged more than £15 billion of lending in the past 12 months.

It supervises over 1,300 advisers across the country, and independent industry analysis shows it has authorised more appointed representative firms in 2025 than any other network.

GROWTH PLANS

Macdonald said: “Networks aren’t always aligned with what firms like ours want to achieve long term. When we began looking for a new partner, it was essential to find a network that genuinely understood our growth plans and would work alongside us to deliver them.”

He added: “With Stonebridge, we found that alignment straight away. They share our ambition and are already supporting us with plans to scale the business, recruit more advisers, and ensure we continue to deliver the best outcomes for our customers.”

SUPPORT AND INSIGHT

Rob Clifford (main picture, inset), chief executive of Stonebridge, said: “Firms like Vickers Young are very clear about where they want to take their business, and they want a partner which will help them get there safely and successfully without any loss of independence.

“Our role is to provide the support, insight, and infrastructure that allow ambitious firms to grow on their own terms. We’re delighted to welcome Corby and the team to Stonebridge and look forward to working with them on their plans in the years ahead.”