We are an independent mortgage adviser, who also offers access to other types of financial advice.
When we started Independent James in 2007 we wanted to help make mortgages as simple and stress-free as possible.
Many of our clients come to us via word of mouth, and we are proud to provide a transparent, prompt and convenient mortgage application service.
Because we’re regulated, we continue to invest in all our staff, so you can be assured when you come to us looking for a mortgage we have skills, experience, contacts and knowledge you need.
We are also affiliated to the UK’s largest mortgage clubs, PMS and L&G and we work with all major lenders. This means we have the clout to negotiate great deals for our clients.
Looking after clients is our top priority, we continue to invest in our one-to-one service and the comprehensive administrative support needed to deliver that service.
Your mortgage can often be one of the first major financial decisions you make. We have partnerships with a number of associates. This means we can help you to plan for life’s other financial milestones.
Don’t take our word for it - see what our clients think about us on our testimonials page and on Google. You can also find out more about our team below.
C Foot, Director, Enterprise Logic, London
Independent James are striving to be recognised for being a socially responsible adviser.
Principal
Despite his youthful looks, James has over 26 years of experience working in independent financial services, always specialising in mortgages and protection and he is a member of the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries.
Setting up in 2007 he has developed the company to be much respected within the industry. James is on several workgroups and IJ maintains key account status with all major lenders.
A coffee lover and always at hand for a chat and an aeropress. He’s an armchair football expert, Middlesbrough mad and a MAMIL; though this has been punctuated with a new family arrival in late 2022.
"I’ve got back into reading recently- Mark Manson, Julia Donaldson (ha), Hilary Mantel, Alain de Botton and Alan Bennett alongside motivational autobiographies (Al Pacino, Evy Poumpouras & Michael Carrick recommendations) and varied business books.
To me, my family and friends are everything. My wife and I visit our family and friends in Leicester and North Yorkshire as much as possible, though the latter is still quite a drive from the North London burbs!"
Fun fact: James' entrepreneurial journey started at University when he organised nationwide nightclub trips!
Mortgage and Protection Adviser
Oliver has been working in financial services for over 15 years and has been with Independent James for the last 12 years.
He’s a fully qualified and experienced mortgage adviser, having gained distinctions in his mortgage examinations including the CeMap Diploma. With an established and constantly refreshed knowledge of lending criteria, you'll be getting the correct advice. The mortgage market is very complicated and Oliver enjoys explaining the details of how your mortgage will work, with some handy tips and tricks to ensure you're completely happy over the term of your mortgage lifetime.
Oliver is determined to travel the world and is passionate about cars and boats as well as property (obviously). Most recently visiting Naples and snorkelling in the crystal clear water of the Amalfi Coast! Italy is a regular visit as the food is unbeatable. He has some Buy-to-Let properties and is keen on keeping his tenants happy - conscious of new licensing requirements in different districts.
Fun fact: Oliver has just refurbished a small 2-bedroom house ready for renting. It's easy to empathise with anyone else with work going on at the moment or anyone thinking about improving.
Mortgage and Protection Adviser
After graduating from the University of Brighton with a degree in Finance and Investment, Tom decided to take the jump into the mortgage world, joining Independent James in 2015.
He now stands as one of our senior mortgage and protection advisers, holding both CeMAP and CeMAP Diploma qualifications.
Having spent the last 7 years advising and guiding his clients to achieve their goals, he's known for his responsiveness and approachability. Tom is always available to his clients, providing a helping hand throughout the whole process and prides himself on consistently finding a solution to even the most complex scenarios.
Tom welcomed his son in 2023 and as the time flies by he's relishing sharing his passion for both football and golf with him. He is also a keen traveller and will always have a holiday or two booked in, albeit now needing more space for the family, the travelling may take a backseat for a while as he looks to move up the property ladder himself.
Fun fact: During his school years, Tom was on the books at Chelsea FC where he was on the path to becoming a Premier League footballer. Although that didn't quite work out, it's not all bad, he now gets to work at Independent James!
Mortgage Adviser
Shangs has been with independent James since 2018. He started his journey at IJ as a mortgage administrator and has now worked his way up to be a fully qualified advisor.
Before joining IJ, he worked at a local mortgage firm while completing his bachelor’s degree in financial mathematics at University of Kent. This is where he discovered his passion for mortgages and helping people achieve one of their biggest milestones.
“Life is short and anything can happen at any time, so always look to appreciate and enjoy life where you can, with the people that are always there for you”.
Shangs enjoys playing and watching football (he supports Chelsea- boo!) and travelling with his wife. He is a purveyor of great food, so you can always find him in the kitchen cooking up different cuisines and honing his cooking skills.
Fun fact: Shangs was born and raised in Germany.
Mortgage Paraplanner
Raul joined us in February 2021, bringing six years of administrative experience in the mortgage industry. He graduated with a 2.1 in Law, providing him with a strong foundation for his career. Working closely with us, Raul has acquired an in-depth understanding of the market and developed an unyielding determination to help our clients achieve their goals. His commitment and drive have earned him CF1 and CF6 qualifications, and he was recently promoted to a Mortgage Paraplanner, with aspirations of becoming an advisor.
Raul’s administrative expertise has been instrumental in streamlining our operations and ensuring efficient workflow within the team. He has a keen eye for detail and his ability to adapt to changing market conditions have made him an invaluable asset to our administrative team.
Fun fact: Raul has experienced the thrill of racing a Lamborghini at the iconic Brands Hatch, showcasing his appetite for adventure and excellence. Whether he's navigating the mortgage market, pushing his physical limits, or exploring the world, Raul embodies ambition, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of success.
Mortgage Paraplanner
Dan is a mortgage paraplanner and assists our advisers with mortgage research and submitting applications. Currently training to become an adviser of his own, Dan is passionate about helping people achieve their dream of homeownership. Dan has been working in the mortgage industry for over seven years, completing his CeMAP qualifications in 2022. Dan loves connecting with clients and ensuring they have a smooth and stress-free experience throughout the homebuying journey.
With extensive knowledge on all things mortgages, Dan's always at hand to answer any questions you may have.
A West Ham season ticket holder, Dan enjoys attending home games despite their unreliable form... Aside from Dan's love of West Ham, he is a keen golfer and is working to get his handicap as low as possible, all whilst trying to finally beat his father-in Law.
Fun Fact: Dan was an accomplished bass player in a breakthrough band and once played at the famous London venue Scala, in front of a crowd over 500 people!
Insurance Specialist
Lorna joined IJ in June 2021, bringing over 13 years of experience in finance and insurance. She specialises in specialist home insurance, helping clients secure coverage for unique properties, including those with subsidence, flooding, Grade-listed status, or non-standard construction. Beyond homes, she’s passionate about bespoke Life protection solutions, ensuring families have the financial security they need for the future.
When she’s not crafting tailored insurance solutions, Lorna is likely off exploring new destinations. An avid traveler, she believes there’s always another adventure waiting.
Fun fact: She’s also a former champion synchronized swimmer who competed at an Olympic trial level, represented Kent in freestyle swimming, and is a fully qualified swim instructor—making waves both in and out of the office!
Insurance Administrator
Our newest recruit Ronnie started with us in January 2025. An enthusiastic and hardworking individual with a strong passion for both personal and professional growth.
His career in insurance has provided him with valuable experience in customer service, client management, and developing meaningful relationships with providers, underwriters, and clients.
Outside of work, he's a dedicated sports fan! He's an avid football supporter, holding a West Ham season ticket for the past eight years!
With an equal passion for house music and traveling, he has attended music festivals across Europe and recently fulfilled a lifelong dream by visiting New York. Fun fact: Ronnie played county level Rugby for Essex for a number of years, and also represented his school at district/county events for various athletic events.
Mortgage and Protection Administrator
With over 9 years of experience in Finance, Gianmarco began his career in Car Finance before transitioning to the mortgage sector. Holding a degree in International Private Law, he successfully earned his CeMAP qualification in 2021. After spending five years as a Mortgage Advisor in Italy, Gianmarco relocated to London, a city he now proudly calls home.
Outside of work, he balances his time between the gym and the kitchen, while nurturing a passion for planning and hosting events worldwide. Dedicated to providing exceptional support and professional guidance, Gianmarco is committed to helping clients navigate their mortgage journey with confidence and ease.
Fun Fact: Over the years, Gianmarco has also appeared in numerous commercials as an actor. Friends and family often tease him about his memorable role in a well-known, yet discreetly referenced, pharmaceutical advertisement.
Compliance Consultant
Joe has been working in the financial services industry since 1999, starting his career at the Regulator (PIA back then, now the FCA).
He then left the regulator and joined the largest Compliance Consultancy firm in the UK where he spent 18 years looking after IFAs and Mortgage firms in London.
Joe then set up his own practice in 2021 and is involved in regulatory audits, assisting firms to ensure they are well placed in meeting their regulatory obligations.
Outside of work, Joe loves to play golf (with 3 young children, this can be tricky) and generally enjoys most sports and family holidays.
Fun Fact: The day before Joe's 30th Birthday, he hit a hole in one…..although this has been the first and last.
Mortgage Administrator
Matthew joined IJ in February 2025, bringing over 6 years administration experience in the mortgage industry. He has worked in various large corporations and holds a CeMAP qualification. He is passionate at putting clients first and often goes above and beyond for his clients.
Outside of work, he is a dedicated sports fan and supports Arsenal football club. When he isn't supporting his favourite club he is playing tennis or badminton.
Fun fact: Matthew used to be a lecturer in China teaching Canadian Securities and Project Management. This allowed him to experience a different culture and allowed him to learn mandarin, although it still isn't fluent.
Concierge
Mr/Osman is the concierge of Kingsway place, he has been working at Kingsway place since 2017. He is responsible for the entire place.
A friend to all people. He loves laughing and traveling. He is the number one fan of Liverpool. If you come to Kingsway place and are looking for advice, ask where Osman is and you will find it. Don't hesitate!
Fun fact: He has a small problem. He spends a large part of his income on buying shoes.
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