Meet the Team
- Supporting you with expert advice and top-quality products
- Working closely with you to understand your wants and needs, ensuring these align with your budget.
- Finding you the most suitable deal for now and in the future.
Please contact us for a no-obligation conversation with an adviser about the most suitable mortgage option for you.
Get In Touch
Meet Our Team
Management Team
Matthew Coulson
As one of the founders of Heron, which we set up in July 2011, I am passionate about helping people build rewarding careers in financial services. I believe that our services should be accessible to all, and I am committed to leveraging technology alongside exceptional customer service to achieve this goal.
My dedication extends to building a business that is always at the forefront of the industry. I ensure that we continually adapt to the evolving needs of our customers, striving for innovation and excellence in everything we do.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my wife and two children.
Adrian Sutcliffe
Sales Director
I started in the financial industry in 2012, and moved to Heron As Sales Director in 2016. I bring my expertise and dedication to client welfare to set a high standard in the mortgage and protection sector. With a focus on building lasting relationships, I strive to ensure our clients receive comprehensive and reliable financial solutions.
Outside of work, I am a devoted/long suffering supporter of Newcastle United and try to enjoy an active lifestyle, being given the runaround by my two sons.
Emma Migliorini
Operations Director
What a journey! Since joining Heron in September 2013 I have had the pleasure of being involved in numerous of initiatives as Heron has evolved over this time frame. I have the privilege of wearing many different colour, size, shape of hat. Never a dull day. Always something new to get your teeth into, improve or learn.
My previous roles weren’t in financial services, and I think I have just about got my head around the complexity and the opportunities the industry has to offer. It is refreshing to work with a business that has such vision.
I believe I am proof that ‘skills sets’ can be transferable and grown irrespective of industry!
Jodie Carroll
I joined Heron Financial in June 2018. I began my career at Heron as an apprentice in the Compliance Team, successful completion of this qualification cemented my role in the compliance team which gave me an amazing foundation for when I moved into my current role of a Protection Team Coordinator in March 2022.
A big part of my non-working life is going on holidays, exploring new places, and spending quality time with my friends and family.
Zoe Jones
I joined Heron Financial in June 2018. I began my career at Heron as an apprentice in the Compliance Team, successful completion of this qualification cemented my role in the compliance team which gave me an amazing foundation for when I moved into my current role of a Protection Team Coordinator in March 2022.
A big part of my non-working life is going on holidays, exploring new places, and spending quality time with my friends and family.
Brennan Goodwin
I Joined Heron in February 2018 at the age 19 shortly after leaving school has allowed me to join the financial industry that I have always had a keen interest in. Initially I started working as a compliance Administrator, then progressing to also provide home insurance advice in 2020 where I continued these role until November 2021.In November 2021 I became a mortgage advisor and continued advising till December 2022. In December 2022 I moved across to take all the skills I have obtained in Heron to oversee our case progression team and mange the team members in this. This role is vital to ensuring the smooth day to day running of the back office team.
Mortgage Advisor Team
Aidan Broom
I joined Heron Financial in January 2020 and during that time I have progressed from passing my CeMAP and then starting out as a trainee adviser to becoming a senior adviser.
I have been working in the financial industry since 2012 having started in retail banking with Halifax and then moved into the broker space in 2017 and have worked up since then.
In my free time I enjoy running and going to the gym which I have built a discipline for and on the back of this I have competed in various endurance events like Tough Mudder.
Dalia Khadir
I have been working in the industry since July 2017, beginning my journey as an intermediary expert at Barclays Bank. There, I assisted brokers with criteria, case support, and post-application queries on the solicitor side. I am skilled in handling residential and BTL mortgages – purchase and remortgages, as well as quirky cases. I joined Heron Financial in April 2022 and started advising in December 2022 which built on my previous banking experience.
I enjoy traveling, exploring diverse cuisines, and immersing myself in different cultures. My experience at Barclays and my current position at Heron have enhanced my interpersonal and technical skills, emphasising customer excellence and effective management throughout the customer lifecycle.
Don Scott
I have worked in Finance since 2018 straight from school. I have amassed a lot of general knowledge about the industry having worked in a range of different areas. I joined Heron in September 2023 and now specialize in ensuring my clients are offered the best possible outcomes for their mortgage needs.
I enjoy a wide range of sports from Golf to Football. I enjoy travelling the world and going to festivals. Having most recently visited Thailand & Singapore for the Formula 1.My desire to win and to be successful transposes into my role at Heron Financial as I always want the best for my clients.
Joshua Johnstone
Since starting in the mortgage industry in January 2018, and moving to Heron in June 2021, over the years, I have had the privilege of assisting a diverse range of clients in achieving their financial goals. Whether it’s helping first-time homebuyers secure their dream home, guiding seasoned investors in expanding their business portfolios, or providing tailored advice for unique and complex financial situations, my commitment to client success remains unwavering.
My approach is centered on personalised service and finding the right solutions for each client’s unique circumstances. I firmly believe that there is a pathway to financial success for everyone, and my role is to navigate and identify the most effective route forward. This often involves delving into the intricacies of each case, leveraging my extensive industry knowledge, and thinking creatively to overcome challenges.
I am particularly passionate about handling complex cases. These situations allow me to utilise my problem-solving skills and in-depth understanding of the mortgage landscape to provide innovative solutions that meet my clients’ needs. My dedication to continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends ensures that I can offer the most current and effective advice.
Kane Powell
Since starting on the apprenticeship scheme with Heron in August 2019, I have worked in a variety of different area’s of the business allowing me to know how to best help our clients in attaining their dreams of owning their own property. I got my CeMAP qualification in February 2021 and have been advising ever since, and more recently being promoted to a Senior advisor in February 2024.
I have always been interested in going to the gym and training, which has taught me a lot of discipline and organisational skills which have been extremely useful skills which have been directly applied to my role at Heron Financial.
Callum Fitzgerald
I joined Heron Financial in March 2022.
During that time, I have worked within various teams such as compliance, applications and since 2023, the newly formed Advice Quality and Lender Process (AQLP) team.
Before I joined Heron, I graduated from the University of Surrey in 2021 with an undergraduate degree in criminology where I learned about things such as financial crime and fraud which were of great interest to me. Since then, I have recently undertaken further studies and completed my CeMAP mortgage advisor qualification where I am striving to become a mortgage advisor in the future!
Outside of Heron, I enjoy gaming, attending raves and festivals with my friends and going to the pub after work on a Friday. Some facts about me are that I love beer, I can’t ride a bike and I hate margarine.
Owen Yeung
Gisel Gil
Mortgage Advisor
Gary Holmes
Mortgage Advisor

Thomas Smith
Mortgage Support Specialist
I joined Heron Financial in February 2022 as an apprentice and during my time at Heron, I have broadened my knowledge and experience in the Mortgage industry. I was in the compliance team prior to becoming a Case Progressor which deepened my awareness of the legal aspects of the role.
I enjoy socialising in my free time and this has been enhanced by my role in communicating and building relationships with my clients. I watch a lot of sport and follow Wycombe Wanderers which is reflected in my loyalty to my clients!
Protection Advisor Team
Ailsa Holmes
Protection Advisor
I started my journey with Heron in September 2023 straight after completing my training as a teacher and graduating with a BA (Hons) from Durham University. This role has afforded me amazing opportunities to enhance the organisational and interpersonal skills which I developed as a teacher, while still yielding opportunities to work with a diverse array of clients, medical professionals, and business development managers.
My favourite things about Heron are the fast-paced environment, dealing with a varied client base, and Heron’s charity work. I am an active member of the scouting association and I am also part of a music group.
Anais Middleton
I joined Heron Financial in September 2019 as an apprentice then moving onto arranging home insurance. From July 2022 I trained up to be a protection advisor assisting clients with their protection needs, such as life insurance, income protection and critical illness. These clients include, first time buyers, remortgages and home movers. I have developed a lot of skills since I first joined as an apprentice. This has give me confidence, greatly increased my organization and overall knowledge of the industry. I enjoy my role because I get to interact with clients on a daily basis and find protecting clients and their families very rewarding.
Outside of work I like to spend time with my family and friends, eat at nice places and travel around the world.
Connor Trainor
I joined Heron Financial in December 2024 as an apprentice, working alongside the protection admin team I have developed a deal great of knowledge and skills within the financial industry. Prior to joining Heron, I studied business, economics and statistics at Newcastle sixth form college, which has helped me gain confidence and a greater understanding of this industry. Outside of my time at Heron, I enjoy cooking meals, the f1, watching the mighty toon and getting an occasional 180 playing darts.
Joe Rillstone
I joined Heron Financial in April 2025, shortly after graduating from Loughborough University with a degree in Economics and Management. Working in the Protection team has given me valuable exposure to the financial services industry, and I’ve already developed a range of new skills and gained significant knowledge in a short time. I’m excited to continue learning and growing my career at Heron alongside our amazing team.
Outside of work, I enjoy staying active through golf, football, and the gym. I’m also a lifelong Watford FC supporter and a bit of a film nerd.
Travis Powell
Protection Advisor
I joined Heron Financial in May 2021. During that time, I have progressed onto my current role as a Protection advisor, helping clients protection their home, family and health, which I have been qualified to do since January 2022.
I’ve always been passionate about fitness and training, and right now, I’m gearing up for a natural bodybuilding competition! This journey has been an incredible teacher, instilling in me the values of patience, discipline, and unwavering consistency. These qualities have become a part of my DNA, fuelling my dedication and hard work in every aspect of my life. At Heron, I channel this same energy and commitment to ensure I always deliver the very best for my clients.
Vinal Kerai
I joined Heron Financial in March 2022. During my tenure, I initially served as the Team Administrator for the Protection Team. In recognition of my dedication and performance, I was promoted to Protection Consultant in November 2023.
I enjoy playing badminton and have trained at the county level. Additionally, I have represented my school in various sports, which has instilled in me the values of teamwork and discipline. These experiences have been invaluable in my role at Heron Financial, where collaboration and collective effort are key to achieving the best outcomes for our clients.
Case Progression Team
Rachel Lewis
I joined Heron Financial in April 2024. I am new to the industry after obtaining a BA in History in 2022 and an MSc in Sport Management in 2023, and am excited to learn and progress at Heron!
I love socialising, which helps in my role as I love talking to clients! I have a strong desire to learn through communicating with others, and can’t wait to become an expert in my role. Outside of the office, I have a strong interest in sport, specifically Formula 1 and Newcastle United. In my free time, I love going to see DJs, and I bring the best playlist to the Gateshead Office!
Zara Arshad
I joined Heron in November 2024. Having come from a retail background, the financial industry is very new for me, but I am very keen to learn and progress in Heron. I completed my Law LLB in 2021 and Masters in LPC in 2023 which I feel will help with the legal aspect of my role. In my spare time I enjoy socializing and spending time with my family and friends.
Neve Lead
I joined Heron Financial in March 2025 and am excited to learn as much as I can here at Heron. I enjoy being able to talk to people and congratulate them on getting their mortgage offers!
Outside of work, I love spending time with my friends and family and taking my two dogs for a walk in the countryside.
Leona Currie
Advice Quality & Lender Process Team
Rebecca Mcloughlin
Prior to joining Heron Financial I was an Estate Agent for 4 years. In that time I gained a lot of experience in the property market, which led me to the finance side of things as I felt that I enjoyed that a lot more. Since joining Heron in April 2024 I found my time as an Agent was great experience as it helped good client communication and a lot of general housing market knowledge which has helped me progress with heron very quickly.
In my spare time I like to be with my friends and family spending time in the pub garden sipping a G&T, I dislike mayonnaise with a passion
Clare Cowie
I have been working in the financial services industry since 1999. I started as an office junior and administrator in Norther Rock and then after passing my professional exams to become a Financial and Mortgage Advisor, which I did for over 10 years. I joined Heron Financial in August 2023 and having now hung up my advisor hat, I am able to concentrate on mortgage compliance which is something that I have always been interested in, it also allows me to still make use of my CeMAP qualification and previous work experience.
As one of the older members of the team, I particularly enjoy working with the younger members ,who keep me smiling and young at heart. In my spare time I enjoy a game of bingo and listening to Harry Styles.
Isaac Manuel
I joined Heron in December 2024. Prior to joining Heron, I was an A level student who studied business, sport and science. The business course in particular helped me to develop an interest in the finance industry.
In my spare time, I enjoy a range of sports such as golf and football, and I am fortunate enough to be a season ticket holder at Newcastle united. I am also new to the industry and hope to learn as much as possible during my time here!
George Coulson
I joined Heron Financial in December 2024, bringing a background in business and psychology from my time at sixth form. Since joining the case progression team, I’ve enjoyed working in a collaborative and friendly environment, where we work together to ensure smooth operations. I find problem-solving to be particularly rewarding in this role, and I’m always looking to learn and grow.
Outside of work, I have a passion for travel and love exploring new countries. I also have a strong interest in cars, which keeps me motivated to stay curious. Though I share the same last name as one of the founders, we are not related! I look forward to contributing to the team’s success.
Lillie Corbett
I joined heron financial in May 2025. I have learnt so much in my time being here. I’m new to the financial industry but have always had an interest in it so I’m excited to learn as much as I can. In my spare time I enjoy travelling, art and going out with friends and family.
James Rout
New Build & Marketing Team
Dionne Hamilton
I joined Heron as a Case Progression Administrator in 2015 and went on to manage the team, before moving into my current role as a BDM in April 2021. It is the best role I have had at Heron so far and my previous experience within the company has given me all the tools needed to provide our customers with the best service!
I’m a total foodie, a sucker for a rom com & love spending time with my favourite people!
Fiona Hopton
I started with Heron as an administrator in January 2012, after returning to work having had 2 children. I have experienced various roles throughout my time at Heron, which has led me to the role I am in today, which I started back in September 2020. I enjoy the variety the role provides which enables me to get out of the office to meet our introducers face to face, being very much a people person, this is something that is very important to me.
I enjoy working with the great team we have here at Heron, its great fun and there is never a dull day!
Francel Bangayan
I joined Heron as its first dedicated Marketing Manager, bringing with me a diverse background that spans global brands like BMW and MINI, as well as fast-moving startups like Let’s Do This and Soul Spaces.
I’m genuinely excited to dive into the financial services space and help grow the Heron Financial brand into something truly standout. There’s so much potential here, and I’m looking forward to working with the team to bring it to life.
Outside of work, you’ll usually find me travelling, playing sports, or enjoying a well-earned pint (or 8).