A trusted name in home finance since 1990, Irish Mortgage Corporation (IMC) is celebrating 35 years of service, growth, and transformation in Ireland’s financial services sector. As the country’s largest Irish-owned mortgage broker, IMC has consistently championed transparency, independence, and client-first thinking—values that remain core to its mission today.
Pioneering Roots in a Changing Market
Founded in response to a mortgage market once dominated by restrictive building societies, IMC emerged at a time when Irish borrowers had little choice and even fewer rights. High fees, limited approvals, and a lack of independent advice left many home seekers frustrated and underserved.
“There was no real choice for customers back in the 70s and 80s,” recalls Derek, Founder and now Chairman of IMC. Recognising the need for change, Derek partnered with Ken MacDonald of Hooke & MacDonald to launch what would become a trailblazing venture. After researching the more developed UK mortgage broker model, IMC opened its doors on Lower Baggot Street in 1990—and quickly began reshaping the Irish mortgage landscape.
Weathering Storms, Building Resilience
Over the decades, IMC has faced some of the toughest economic headwinds—from the 1992 currency crisis to the global financial crash in 2008 and the COVID-19 pandemic. Each challenge tested the company’s foundation. The 2008 crash, in particular, forced a reduction in staff and sharply curtailed lending activity across Ireland.
Yet through prudent leadership and a focus on long-term sustainability, IMC endured. “We kept the fabric of the company intact during the lean years,” Derek explains. “When the market picked up, we were ready to respond—and that’s exactly what we did.”
New Leadership for a New Era
Marking its 35th anniversary in 2025, IMC is looking to the future with confidence. The company has announced a significant leadership transition: Fiona Deering and Liam O’Connor have been appointed as Joint Managing Directors, while Derek steps into the role of Chairman.
“I couldn’t be prouder to hand over the reins to Fiona and Liam,” Derek shares. “They’ve shown extraordinary leadership and insight during both challenging and high-growth periods. The company is in safe, ambitious hands.”
Both Fiona and Liam have been instrumental in IMC’s strategic development, and their appointment signals a continued commitment to growth, innovation, and excellence.
Expanding Horizons: From Mortgages to Full Financial Guidance
Liam O’Connor sees the future of the business extending well beyond traditional mortgage services. “Clients today are looking for more than a mortgage,” he explains. “They want holistic advice—whether it’s protection, refinancing, or long-term planning. We’re here to support their full financial journey.”
That vision is reflected in IMC’s expanding portfolio. The firm now provides access to all eight mortgage lenders in Ireland and ranks in the top 3% of Irish mortgage brokers. Services include:
- First-time buyer guidance
- Mortgage switching and moving home loans
- Buy-to-let and lifetime/equity release options
- Mortgage protection, life insurance, and home insurance
- Comprehensive financial planning through its MoneyCoach division, including retirement, investment, and savings advice
Merging Expertise with Technology
Co-Managing Director Fiona Deering is focused on blending expert advice with modern tools to deliver an elevated customer experience. “Technology and client expectations are evolving,” Fiona says. “Our goal is to ensure every customer benefits from a tailored, efficient, and supportive journey with us.”
Looking Ahead
As Derek transitions into his new role as Chairman, he remains actively involved in guiding the company’s mission and values. “This isn’t a farewell,” he says. “I’ll continue to support the team and ensure that trust, independence, and putting the client first remain at the heart of everything we do.”
With strong leadership, a dynamic service offering, and a clear vision for the future, Irish Mortgage Corporation is not just celebrating a proud legacy—it’s building on it.
About Irish Mortgage Corporation
Irish Mortgage Corporation (IMC) is Ireland’s largest Irish-owned mortgage broker, providing expert, impartial, and free mortgage advice since 1990. The firm supports clients across all stages of the property journey and offers a wide range of financial planning services through its MoneyCoach division.
