The Equity Release Council (the Council) has appointed Tracy Gorbutt-Powell as its new head of risk, policy and compliance.
Tracy will report to deputy chief executive and director of risk, policy and compliance, Kelly Melville-Kelly, and will work closely with Laura Gibson, head of membership and engagement, and Tom Brett, head of commercial and business development.
The Council says her appointment further strengthens their governance, oversight and policy capabilities at a pivotal time, as it expands its remit across the later life lending market.
Tracy brings over 20 years of experience in financial services, with a career spanning banking and broker networks in mortgages and protection. She has held roles across both first and second line of defence compliance functions, focusing on delivering strong customer outcomes and effective risk management. Her previous roles include positions at RBS Group, including NatWest, HSBC, and Lloyds, before moving into the intermediary sector with broker networks such as Mortgage Advice Bureau and HL Partnership.
The appointment follows the Council’s recent restructure and the broadening of its remit to cover all forms of regulated later life lending, while maintaining high standards in the equity release market.
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.”
Tracy Gorbutt-Powell, head of risk, policy and compliance at the Equity Release Council, said: “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.”
