![Major brokerage welcomes new NSW state manager](/images/news/Jason_Mares_headshot.jpg)
Mortgage Choice has named Jason Mares as its new state manager for NSW, following the departure of David Ewens.
The major brokerage has welcomed Jason Mares, the former head of operations at La Trobe Financial Services, as its new state manager for NSW.
Mr Mares took up the position on 15 February, filling the void left by the previous long-term post-holder, David Ewens, who started a new role as national sales manager at Smartline Personal Mortgage Advisors earlier this month.
In his new role, Mr Mares will be responsible and accountable for Mortgage Choice’s recruitment, franchise team development and overall business growth in the state.
He will report into David Zammit, general manager distribution and wealth.
Speaking about Jason’s appointment, Mr Zammit noted Mr Mares’ experience working with C-suite management teams across numerous industries, including retail, mining, wholesale, manufacturing and professional services.
He said that Mr Mares was “a highly experienced business and sales leader”, having led expansion and transformational strategies at La Trobe Financial and at ANZ, where he was managing director, corporate banking Australia, between 2011-2015.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jason to Mortgage Choice,” Mr Zammit said.
“He brings a wealth of experience to the role, having spent his career in financial services. He has a deep knowledge and genuine understanding of operating business, which will be invaluable to our broker network.”
Speaking about his appointment, Mr Mares said he believed Mortgage Choice had an “excellent reputation and iconic brand”, adding: “Small business is a cornerstone of the Australian economy. The opportunity to work closely with and support Mortgage Choice franchises is both exciting and rewarding.”
He continued: “There are significant opportunities within the mortgage industry, and I look forward to building long-term relationships which will endure the economic cycles to follow...
“Looking ahead, I see the housing market maintaining a high level of activity this year. The recent introduction of best interests duty combined with increased SLAs will provide challenges; however, Mortgage Choice is working closely with its franchisees and partners to ensure [its] brokers can take full advantage of the opportunities before them,” Mr Mares said.
[Related: Mortgage Choice reports second-highest settlement figures]
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