Many know Jordanne Whiley, MBE, as a decorated Paralympian and Grand Slam champion, but her journey from the world of tennis to the financial sector is a tale of reinvention and determination. This blog delves into her transition, highlighting her lessons from elite sport, the drive behind her career shift, and the impact she’s making in the finance industry today.
From Tennis Prodigy to Paralympic Medalist
Jordanne’s love affair with tennis began at the age of three, inspired by her father, who was also a Paralympian. Her early days were spent on local courts, where her raw talent quickly caught the attention of coaches. However, her journey to the top wasn’t without its challenges. At 12 years old, Jordanne faced skepticism from a coach who doubted her potential. Undeterred, she proved them wrong, earning a spot on Great Britain’s World Cup team the same year.
Over her career, Jordanne achieved incredible milestones:
- 13 Grand Slam Titles: Including 12 doubles and 1 singles title.
- Four Paralympic Medals: Three bronze and one silver.
- World Number One in Doubles: A position she held with pride.
Despite her accolades, Jordanne’s path was marked by a complex relationship with the sport. “I loved competing, but I hated training,” she admits. Her natural talent allowed her to achieve greatness with less effort than many of her peers, but she reflects on missed opportunities. “If I had pushed myself more, I could have been unstoppable,” she says.
Transitioning from Tennis to Finance
By her late 20s, Jordanne felt ready to leave tennis behind. She had a young son and was eager to find a new purpose that didn’t involve constant travel and time away from family.
“I needed to figure out what I was good at outside of tennis,” she recalls. After a period of reflection, she decided to combine her interest in property and finance, leading her to pursue a Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice (CeMAP). Balancing the demands of studying with motherhood and her tennis commitments was no small feat, but Jordanne’s determination saw her through. She completed her qualification within the allotted 12 months, an achievement made even more impressive by the fact that she studied independently without external tutoring.
Her first step into property investment began during her tennis career when she purchased a property without even seeing it in person. With her mum’s help, she made an offer and later refurbished it, selling it for a healthy profit. This experience ignited her passion for real estate.
Finding Her Place in Financial Services
When Jordanne started her career as a mortgage adviser, she faced an uphill battle. Despite her qualifications and drive, several firms turned her away when she sought internships during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a chance encounter with AJ, co-host of Industry Disruptors and founder of Hearthstone Mortgages, changed everything. Recognising Jordanne’s potential, AJ offered her a role as an intern.
From day one, Jordanne’s diligence and hunger to learn set her apart. She immersed herself in the world of mortgages, bridging finance, and property investment, meticulously studying AJ’s methods and absorbing everything she could. Her background in elite sport gave her a unique edge. “The discipline, focus, and drive I had in tennis translated perfectly into finance,” she explains.
Making Her Mark in the Industry
Today, Jordanne Whiley is not just an exceptional mortgage adviser but also a key player in the growth of Hearthstone Mortgages. She mentors new advisers, oversees operations, and works closely with clients to deliver tailored financial solutions. Her expertise in specialist finance—from bridging loans to complex company structures—has earned her recognition as one of the rising stars in the industry.
Reflecting on her journey, Jordanne credits her time in tennis with shaping her approach to her new career. “Tennis taught me resilience and the importance of fair play,” she says. “Now, I apply those principles to help my clients achieve their goals.”
What’s Next for Jordanne?
Jordanne’s vision for the future is clear: she wants to continue growing Hearthstone Mortgages, mentoring the next generation of advisers, and solidifying her reputation as a leader in the financial services sector.
“I’m passionate about helping others build their portfolios and achieve financial freedom,” she says. “This industry has given me so much, and I want to give back by sharing my knowledge and experience.”
Her journey from the tennis court to the boardroom is a testament to the power of reinvention. Jordanne Whiley, MBE, has shown that with the right mindset and determination, it’s possible to excel in any field.
Are you looking for a specialist mortgage adviser who truly understands the complexities of property finance? Get in touch with Jordanne Whiley and the team at Hearthstone Mortgages to explore your options.
