Meet Jane Benjamin, Director of Mortgages, Connect for Intermedaries – Consumer Duty Champion | Industry Collaborator | Dog Lover
At Connect, people are at the centre of what we do. Jane Benjamin represents that belief as our Director of Mortgages. With purpose and energy, she leads across multiple areas of the business. Here’s a close look at her daily rhythm, guiding principles, and how she maintains sustainable balance.
At the Heart of the Mortgage Network
Jane’s influence extends across the full Connect network. Her work includes:
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Leading residential and buy-to-let mortgage propositions across the UK market
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Maintaining relationships with protection providers and referral services
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Directing the Group’s marketing strategy and national events programme
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Supporting the Direct-to-Consumer mortgage adviser team
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Acting as our Consumer Duty Champion, focused on fair customer outcomes
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Building team morale through Connect People and EOS initiatives
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Representing Connect in industry forums and working groups such as:
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AMI Working in Mortgages Group
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Diversity & Inclusion Finance Forum
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Women in Financial Services Charter
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And other expert panels requiring her input
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Meet Jane Benjamin – 5 am Starts, Greyhound Calls, and Rolling Agendas
“My three rescue greyhounds get me moving by 5 a.m. – breakfast and a long walk,” Jane smiles. “It’s peaceful. The quiet time outdoors gives me space before the busy day ahead.”
Afterwards, no two mornings look alike. She might meet lenders over coffee, lead planning sessions at HQ, or catch up during a “walk and talk.” Each day is varied and keeps her energised.
Meet Jane Benjamin – Afternoons, Boundaries, and Balance
Jane strongly believes in setting boundaries. “Burnout is not a sign of commitment,” she says. “When my workday ends, it ends.”
Afternoons include meetings, planning, and adviser support. However, the work stops when the day does. That space helps her stay focused, grounded, and ready for the next day.
Where Productivity Happens
Ask when she’s most productive, and Jane answers, “Mornings – definitely. But really, it’s about mental space.”
Some of her best ideas come while outdoors – walking, feeding animals, or gardening. These moments bring clarity that office time can’t always provide.
“Stillness sparks clarity,” she says with conviction.
Meet Jane Benjamin – From Rescuer to Rescued: Finding Purpose Again
In February 2020, Jane adopted three greyhounds. She thought she was saving them, but they saved her too.
“I was exhausted and drifting. The dogs gave me structure and reminded me what truly matters – care, time, and love.”
Her openness about mental wellbeing highlights her belief in real, human-first leadership.
Meet Jane Benjamin- Favourite Part of the Job? The People. Always the People.
“I meet fantastic advisers, lenders, and financial experts every day. These interactions inspire me.”
Jane thrives on collaborative events and industry discussions. She values progress built on shared insights and a common goal – improving outcomes for consumers.
Meet Jane Benjamin – Home Life: Messy, Real, and Wonderful
“Dinner time is dog-first, not fine dining,” she laughs. “It’s muddy paws, a messy kitchen, and loads of laughter.”
Unwinding the Jane Way
Whether hiking, bodyboarding, diving, or just walking with her dogs, Jane finds release in nature.
“Ocean or hills – it doesn’t matter. Being outdoors clears my head and resets my energy.”
Career Advice from Jane
“Stick to your values. They shape your reputation – and that reputation will follow you throughout your career.”
The Power of Support Networks
Jane often shares how vital her network has been.
“Support goes both ways. Give it as much as you seek it. You never know who needs help beside you.”
Meet Jane Benjamin – Academic Path? Optional. Drive? Essential.
Is a degree needed to succeed in mortgages?
“Not at all,” she says plainly. “I’m not a numbers person, and yet here I am.”
For Jane, growth comes from curiosity, resilience, emotional awareness, and the will to improve.
In Jane’s Words…
“Stay awake to what matters. Be kind. Question what’s accepted. And remember – you define what success looks like.”
Jane’s journey is a reminder that effective leadership isn’t about doing everything. It’s about showing up where it matters most.
Thank you for reading our “Meet Jane Benjamin | A Day in the Life of…” publication. Stay “Connect“-ed for more updates soon!