BDM in the Spotlight: Jimmy Hou, Brighten
Publication Date: Monday , 19 January 2026
This article originally appeared in Mortgage Professional Australia
‘ Over the years, many brokers have become friends, which is one of the reasons I love what I do’
In the latest instalment of MPA’s popular ‘BDM in the Spotlight’ series, Jimmy Hou discusses his role at non-bank lender Brighten.
Hou’s passion for finance began in China, before migrating to Australia and joining Brighten in 2020. Hou discusses what he loves about his role, and how Brighten has helped to reduce the burden imposed on brokers by clawbacks.
This series is dedicated to shining a light on the best and brightest business development managers and state managers in Australia’s broking mortgage finance industry.
- Full name: Jimmy Hou
- Job title: Senior BDM / National Partnerships Manager
- Company: Brighten
- Number of years in the industry: 12
- Location: Melbourne
When and how did you join the finance industry?
I started my career at Standard Chartered Bank in China in 2010, which gave me a strong foundation in financial services. After migrating to Australia, continuing in finance felt like a natural progression. In 2020, I joined Brighten as a Business Development Manager and have since progressed to Senior BDM and National Partnerships Manager.
What does your current role involve?
My role involves supporting brokers by providing solutions, answering queries, and helping them navigate complex scenarios. I spend most of my time in meetings and on calls with brokers, sometimes about business, sometimes just catching up. Over the years, many brokers have become friends, which is one of the reasons I love what I do.
How do you assist brokers to grow their business?
It starts with listening. I identify each broker’s objectives and then collaborate on strategies that align with their goals. Brighten’s diverse product suite, spanning residential, commercial, and specialist lending, gives brokers the flexibility to meet client needs. I also provide policy training and support brokers in leveraging our technology platforms like the Broker Portal and ApplyOnline.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Helping a broker take a deal from start to settlement is incredibly rewarding. I like helping clients achieve their goals and strengthening trust with brokers. Those personal connections and shared successes are what make this role so enjoyable.
What’s the most important advice you can offer to a new-to-industry broker?
Stay curious and keep an open mind. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, and come prepared with details about the scenario you want to discuss. This makes conversations more productive and helps us find the best solutions together.
How important is broker feedback in ensuring you provide the best service?
Broker feedback is the most important factor for me. I’m grateful for the positive feedback I’ve received over the years, but it also reminds me that maintaining a high standard of service is essential in our industry.
What makes a great BDM or state manager?
Being accessible, knowledgeable, and having a ‘can-do’ attitude to solve problems quickly.
If there’s one thing you could change about the industry, what would it be?
Clawback. It’s a pain point for brokers and a necessity for lenders, but finding a fair balance would be a win-win for everyone. At Brighten, we’ve already made progress by removing clawback on specific products like alt doc construction loans, and I’d love to see more initiatives like this across the industry.
Describe your ideal weekend:
Going to the beach with family in summer and enjoying a hot pot dinner with friends in winter.