One month on from this year's Conference and the conversations, ideas and energy from the day are still being talked about across our community. Returning to Farnborough ICC once again proved to be the perfect setting for bringing our community together, with advisers, lenders, providers and partners all under one roof for an event that lived up to expectations.
Conference 2026 was about more than just discussing the market. It was an opportunity to connect, share experiences and look ahead with confidence at the opportunities shaping the future of our network and the wider industry.
A Strong Focus on Growth & Innovation
One of the standout themes throughout the day was growth, for the community and individual firms. Attendees had the chance to speak directly with the OneDome team and learn more about the HomeBuyer Service, alongside exciting plans designed to support advisers in delivering a more connected customer journey.
The sessions delivered by Babek Ismayil, Andrew Montlake and Sir Nigel Knowles provided valuable insight into leadership, innovation and adapting to change in an evolving market.
Their perspectives sparked important discussions around technology, client expectations and how firms can continue to strengthen their businesses in the years ahead.
“Overall fab event and will encourage all of the team to attend next year. Looking forward to it already!”
Growth Accelerator
A key announcement from Babek Ismayil during the day focused on the future growth of advisory firms and investing in people. During his speech, Babek unveiled a new recruitment support scheme designed to reward firms for taking on new employees and growing their teams.
The initiative was introduced as part of a wider commitment to supporting adviser businesses as they scale, helping them invest in new talent with greater confidence while encouraging long-term development across our community. The announcement was welcomed positively by attendees, particularly as recruitment and retention continue to be important priorities for many firms navigating an increasingly competitive market.
Industry Voices Driving Important Conversations
Our mortgage panel once again brought together some of the industry’s most influential voices to discuss the topics shaping the sector today. From artificial intelligence and regulation to geopolitical uncertainty and customer outcomes, the panel delivered honest, thought-provoking discussion and practical insight for advisers navigating a challenging market. Thank you to Paddy Doyle, Richard Beardshaw, Stephanie Charman, David Morris and Emily Hollands for sharing their expertise and perspectives throughout the session.
“I always enjoy a day with experts and colleagues, you learn so much and get a different perspective on so many issues usually coped with on your own.”
A New Experience on the Exhibition Floor
This year also introduced a fresh and immersive element to Conference through the virtual exhibition panels. The protection, specialist lending and building society sessions offered attendees a unique and focused experience, allowing deeper engagement with the discussions taking place.
Across each panel, speakers explored the evolving needs of customers, the importance of specialist solutions and the growing role building societies continue to play within the market. The feedback from attendees on the new format has been incredibly positive, and it was fantastic to see so much engagement throughout the day.
“This was very valuable as a new adviser. I was able to talk to lenders about certain cases.”
Celebrating Success Across the Network
One of the most important parts of Conference is recognising the achievements of our members, administrators and staff. The evening awards provided the perfect opportunity to celebrate the dedication, professionalism and success seen across the network over the past year.
2026 marks Mortgage Intelligence’s 30th anniversary so it was only right to mark this milestone with a throwback to when it all started. The 90’s themed evening brought an added sense of nostalgia and celebration as our guest speaker, Pat Sharp, helped round off the event in style, bringing plenty of energy, entertainment and memorable moments to close the day.
To everyone who attended and supported Conference 2026, thank you for making this year’s event such a success. The collaboration, positivity and shared ambition on display throughout the day reflected exactly what makes our community so special.
As we move further into 2026, the ideas and conversations started at Conference will continue to shape the months ahead, and we’re excited about what comes next.
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