Smart Compliance Celebrates the Well-Deserved Promotions of Two Key Leaders
Smart Compliance Celebrates the Well-Deserved Promotions of Two Key Leaders
In an exciting development at Smart Compliance, we are thrilled to announce the well-deserved promotions of two individuals who have been pivotal in our journey: the promotion of William Sendall to Operations Director and Rachel Searley to Membership Director.
William Sendall: A Journey from Compliance Manager to Operations Director
William’s career at Smart Compliance has been a remarkable journey of growth and expertise. Since joining our parent company, Lifetime Legal, in October 2015, he has shown a consistent trajectory of professional development. Starting as a Member Services and Compliance Manager, William has become a pivotal figure within the company. His promotion in January 2020 to Head of Regulated Services was a testament not only to his proficiency in anti-money laundering and legal compliance but also to his exceptional leadership skills. His international advanced certificate in anti-money laundering is just one of the many qualities that make him stand out. Under his guidance, the team has excelled in ensuring our clients’ AML compliance. His promotion to Operations Director is a natural progression, recognising his vast experience and the value he brings to our team and services.
Rachel Searley: From Will Writing Executive to Membership Director
Rachel’s story is equally inspiring. Since joining the company in October 2016, her progression through the ranks has been nothing short of remarkable, reflecting her commitment and versatility. Initially serving as Head of Estate Planning, she later advanced to Head of Membership and Legal Operations. In her current role as Head of Operations, Rachel has been instrumental in steering the company’s day-to-day activities. Her educational background in criminology and criminal justice, combined with her advanced certification in will preparation, brings a unique perspective to Rachel’s work and a comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape. Rachel’s promotion to Membership Director is a well-deserved recognition of her dedication and skill.
A Word from Our CEO – Rob Sendall
“Our company’s growth and success are a direct result of the dedication and expertise of our team. The promotions of William and Rachel are well-deserved and reflect their exceptional contributions to our company. They embody the spirit of innovation and commitment that we highly value at Smart Compliance. As we continue to grow, I am confident that their leadership will guide us to new heights of excellence.”
A Testament to Growth and Excellence
These promotions are more than just acknowledgements of William and Rachel’s individual achievements; they symbolise the commitment to leadership and excellence that is deeply ingrained in the culture of Smart Compliance. As we continue to grow, the expertise and direction of such individuals are invaluable, guiding our company towards further success and development. William and Rachel are shining examples of professional growth and commitment. Their promotions are a testament to their hard work and dedication – we wish them all the success in their new roles!
Thomas Morris’s Success Story: A Case Study on the Impact of Mover Protection
Thomas Morris’s Success Story: A Case Study on the Impact of Mover Protection
Estate agents are constantly seeking innovative ways to offer value and build trust with their clients. One such approach is offering Mover Protection, a benefit provided free of charge to buyers and sellers for a trial period after their AML checks with Smart Compliance. Our Commercial Director, Amy Shields, explored this innovative approach in a detailed conversation with Simon Bradbury, Managing Director at Thomas Morris, who shared his valuable insights and experiences.
Background on Mover Protection:
Mover Protection is a solution designed to provide peace of mind for both buyers and sellers in the often-unpredictable property market. This product is a key benefit included in the 3-month complimentary Lifetime Legal membership, which is gifted to clients upon the successful completion of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks with Smart Compliance. It provides financial protection by covering various costs, up to £2,570, including legal, marketing, estate agency, and survey fees, in the event of a property sale or purchase falling through no fault of the client. *
Offering Mover Protection as a follow-up to AML checks can differentiate an estate agency in a competitive market. This unique combination of legal compliance and financial protection can be a key selling point, attracting clients who value thoroughness and security in their property transactions.
Thomas Morris’s Journey with Smart Compliance
Thomas Morris has been at the forefront of embracing Smart Compliance, having utilised the service since the summer of 2022. Before this transition, their process involved conducting electronic AML checks and performing enhanced due diligence manually. Simon Bradbury recalls the initial apprehension among the staff regarding the idea of billing clients for AML checks. Nevertheless, following a shift in perspective and a phase of cultivating confidence, he acknowledges the change in approach: “Most people have no issues about paying for things upfront if they see proper value in it. And that’s the proper value.”
Successful Mover Protection Claims
Thomas Morris has recently seen nine Mover Protection submissions from their clients, with three of these claims, all from first-time buyers, being successfully processed. The total compensation has amounted to over £2,500, a considerable figure that has undoubtedly created a positive impact on those clients. Simon Bradbury considers the broader implications of this, noting not just the financial advantage for the clients but also the enhanced reputation it brings to Thomas Morris. He remarks, “Just think about those three first-time buyers. What will they think of Thomas Morris? Honestly, we are reflecting in your glory. There’s no PR that can buy an experience like that, where people receive hundreds of pounds back.” As of the current year, Smart Compliance has settled 88 percent of all Mover Protection claims. **
Leveraging Mover Protection as a Unique Selling Point
Simon Bradbury emphasises the importance of strategically positioning Mover Protection in their client presentation process. He highlights how Mover Protection is introduced during the fees section, tying it to the agency’s lower-than-average cancellation rates and transparent approach to legal requirements and fees. “We pride ourselves on being bold, straightforward, and transparent – qualities not typically expected from estate agents. This approach means a lot to us, and we believe it sets us apart. While other agents may not mention it, our Mover Protection product is a key differentiator. In today’s estate agency market, unique selling points are rare, but this is a service that, at present, none of our competitors offer. It represents excellent value.”
Conclusion: Mover Protection as a Key Differentiator
Mover Protection is more than just a financial safety net; it’s a testament to an estate agency’s dedication to client satisfaction and trust. As Simon Bradbury’s experience with Thomas Morris demonstrates, integrating Smart Compliance can significantly enhance an agency’s value proposition, setting a new standard in the property industry. As Simon Bradbury states, ‘They get a nice professional experience. They get their AML checks done, they get their Lifetime Legal membership with the Mover Protection, and their free standard or mirror Will if they want it. So, it just makes us guys look good’. Watch the full interview below:
* Following a complimentary 3-month period there is the option to continue membership for £7.99 per month with no tie-in.
**Refunds are made at the sole discretion of Lifetime Legal. Terms and Conditions apply.