Power Moves: Radian, Planet, Polunsky Beitel Green and others make prominent personnel decisions

Notable names were on the move in the mortgage industry over the past two-plus weeks

Power Moves: Radian, Planet, Polunsky Beitel Green and others make prominent personnel decisions

Notable names were on the move in the mortgage industry over the past two-plus weeks

Radian announced that CEO Rick Thornberry has decided to retire in December after serving as the mortgage insurer’s top executive since 2017. The Radian board has appointed Mike Weinbach as CEO-elect, effective June 1. He will become permanent CEO and a board member on Aug. 13, with Thornberry serving as a strategic adviser until his retirement date. Weinbach is a 30-year veteran of the mortgage and investment banking industries, including serving as president of Mr. Cooper Group, CEO of consumer lending at Wells Fargo and chief executive at Chase Home Lending.

Planet has tapped Brandon Latman as chief operating officer of servicing and default operations for its servicing channel. A two-decade mortgage veteran with experience in servicing, originations, capital markets and operations, he previously held senior roles at Mr. Cooper and Rocket Mortgage, most recently serving as head of default at Rocket.

Planet also announced the hiring of Tracy Hochrine as branch manager of its new San Antonio location. Hochrine, who is affectionately known as “Mortgage Mama” in professional circles, worked as a loan originator for more than eight years at Gateway Mortgage and has built a strong presence serving military families in Texas.

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Polunsky Beitel Green, a law firm supporting the residential mortgage industry, announced the promotion of Peter Idziak to principal. Idziak, who has been with the firm for nearly seven years, specializes in regulatory compliance and consumer financial law, with expertise in an alphabet soup of federal mortgage laws (including RESPA, TILA, ECOA, FCRA, FDCPA and HMDA) as well as program requirements for loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Federal Housing Administration.

Click n’ Close has hired 20-year mortgage banking veteran Amy Azorandia as chief compliance officer. Most recently serving as senior vice president of mortgage compliance and systems at Firstrust Bank, Azorandia previously held positions at GMH Mortgage Services and has served in leadership roles at both the Mortgage Bankers Association and The Mortgage Collaborative.

Click n’ Close also announced the strategic engagement of Christy Soukhamneut and Launch Point Advisory Group to support the expansion of its Whole Loan Trading division. Soukhamneut, a three-decade veteran of mortgage banking who currently serves on the board of the Mortgage Bankers Association of Texas, will help grow the company’s secondary market presence and whole loan trading opportunities across its government and specialty loan programs.

Rate announced that Arizona-based loan originator Kelsey Marquardt has joined the company following a brief stint at Universal Lending and a five-year tenure at NFM Lending. A former real estate agent who brings a dual perspective to mortgage lending, Marquardt is licensed in seven states located in geographically disparate areas across the U.S.

Lower announced the hire of Paul Zinn as executive vice president of retail lending and divisional manager, responsible for expanding the company’s retail presence. The founder of The Rising Tide Collective, an advisory service for independent mortgage banks and brokers, Zinn worked at AnnieMac Home Mortgage for 13 years as senior vice president of business development.

CrossCountry Mortgage has hired Raena Pinchuk as a sales manager serving northern Idaho and Pacific Northwest markets. Based in the Gem State, Pinchuk has more than 15 years of mortgage industry experience.

Merchants Capital announced the addition of April Moreland as senior vice president, GSE chief underwriter, based in the company’s office in Washington, D.C. Moreland, who recently served as director of specialty products at Citibank Community Capital and previously held progressively senior roles at Freddie Mac, will focus on operational consistency and underwriting transparency as Merchants expands its government-sponsored enterprise platform.

Mortgage services provider ServiceLink has added Ryan Reaves as a vice president and national sales executive within its default division. Reaves will be responsible for managing client relationships across a range of business segments, including field services, default title and valuation, auctions and servicing support.

Mortgage subservicer LoanCare announced the hiring of Ramie Word as executive vice president of client relations. Word has upward of 25 years of mortgage servicing experience, including more than 20 years at Mr. Cooper.

Fraud prevention company Default Analytics announced the appointment of Keith Kemph as president. The former president and CEO of BlackFin Group will be charged with leading company strategy in the evolving space of shadow loan fraud detection in the mortgage banking industry.

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Kurt Brandly | 36

Greenside Capital

Florida

11 years in business

President of Greenside Capital, a top boutique brokerage specializing in investor financing. Former top producer and leader at Rocket Mortgage who helped redevelop multiple client-facing roles, partnered with Morgan Stanley and American Express, and earned dual master’s degrees in Business and Finance while working full-time. Kurt is redefining the client experience around homeownership, wealth building, and financial literacy.

James Burton | 39

Southern Trust Mortgage

South Carolina

4 years in business

James Burton is a South Carolina mortgage loan officer known for Lending the Lowcountry. With over four years of experience and a proud family legacy in mortgage lending, James became a top producer early in his career. A Citadel graduate and avid outdoorsman, he’s recognized for his relentless dedication, five-star service, and commitment to being his clients’ lender for life.

Nate Clear | 36

FirstFunding Inc

Texas

15 years in business

Nate Clear, President of FirstFunding, is transforming warehouse lending through innovation and disciplined execution. He has doubled monthly fundings, tripled sales, and launched new onboarding, training, and client service programs that improved efficiency, responsiveness, and client experience. Clear’s leadership drives agility, inclusion, and sustainable growth-fueling record performance.

JD Cutri | 34

Plaza Home Mortgage

California

11 years in business

JD Cutri is the VP of Non-Delegated Lending for Plaza Home Mortgage, where he is responsible for driving growth and expanding Plaza’s Non-Delegated Correspondent production nationwide. Throughout his career, Cutri has been recognized for his leadership and performance, earlier as Co-Founder of Plaza’s Young Mortgage Professionals Association and more recently earning Plaza’s Select Circle Award and ranking as one of the company’s top producers.

Nick DeJesus | 38

Planet Home Lending

Pennsylvania

9 years in business

As a producing branch manager, DeJesus stands out for leadership, drive, and consistently exceptional results. Since opening Planet’s Bethlehem, PA branch in 2022, he’s built a high-performing team focused on affordability, personalized guidance, and lifelong relationships. A NAHREP and Planet President’s Club Top Originator, he also supports local animal shelters, helping families and pets alike find their forever homes.

Connor Donovan | 26

Park Place Finance

Texas

4 years in business

Connor Donovan serves as Chief Revenue Officer at Park Place Finance, leading the sales team and managing lending operations nationwide. With his experience in mortgage and financial services, he drives revenue growth, builds strategic partnerships, and leads high-performing sales teams through expert leadership and industry insight.

Thomas Evans | 31

Acadia Lending Group

Maine

8 years in business

Tom Evans combines industry expertise with genuine enthusiasm for helping people reach their homeownership goals. He works with everyone from first-time buyers to seasoned investors and those seeking second homes in Vacationland. Known for his quick thinking, strong problem-solving skills, and client-first approach, Tom delivers thoughtful lending solutions designed to fit every borrower’s needs.

Alec Finn | 33

American Heritage Lending

Illinois

6 years in business

Alec Finn is a Producing Sales Manager at American Heritage Lending, helping real estate and mortgage professionals grow their referral networks and expand their Non-QM business. Based in Chicago, he drives Midwest market growth through creative lending solutions, strong partnerships, and a results-driven approach that reflects AHL’s mission to redefine Non-QM lending nationwide.

Chania Ford | 28

Groundfloor Lending

Georgia

1 year in business

Chania Ford is a Business Development Manager at Groundfloor Lending. A first-generation Caribbean-American from New York City, she transitioned from product development to real estate finance, quickly excelling in investor relations. Known for her confidence and relationship-building skills, she’s a trusted partner to both new and experienced investors.

Daniel Halvorsen | 36

LoanPeople

Florida

14 years in business

Daniel is a Scotsman Guide Top Originator and 40 Under 40 winner. Through a referral-driven approach, he has personally funded over $1 billion in volume. Halvorsen is Northeast Florida’s #1 retail originator (CoreLogic) and a leading originator for loans utilizing Florida Housing Corp. DPA programs. He champions accessible homeownership, enjoys guitar and family time, and supports Clarke Schools For Hearing & Speech and Wolfson Children’s Hospital.

Travis Harris | 36

Southern Trust Mortgage

Virginia

13 years in business

A James Madison University graduate who began his career in mortgage marketing, Travis Harris has spent over a decade redefining community service through lending. Since 2012, he’s helped hundreds of Hampton Roads families achieve homeownership through creativity, education, and strong builder and Realtor partnerships. Known for his sharp mind and local heart, Travis builds lasting relationships through exceptional service.

Brent Hoffman | 36

PRMG

Ohio

14 years in business

Brent Hoffman made a bold move to give clients and partners the best. For nine years at PRMG, he’s built success on transparency, efficiency, and genuine care. As a Branch Manager and President’s Cabinet member, he delivers competitive loans with fast approvals and smooth closings. His independent structure ensures personalized service, and his passion shines through in every transaction.

Kyle Johnson | 32

CrossCountry Mortgage

Washington State

10 years in business

Kyle Johnson is a nationally ranked Branch Manager and Mortgage Advisor with CrossCountry Mortgage, leading a top-performing team based in Lacey, WA. Helping families across the country, he’s guided over 2,000 families nationwide with a concierge-level approach rooted in clarity, care, and expertise, specializing in VA loans and relocations for military families.

Peter Jose | 35

PRMG

Maine

10 years in business

Peter Jose is a dynamic Branch Manager with a finance degree and a passion for helping people achieve homeownership. Known for his professionalism, enthusiasm, and creative problem-solving, he ensures borrowers feel informed and supported. A member of PRMG’s President’s Cabinet, he brings energy, expertise, and genuine care to every loan.

Victoria Kammer | 38

CrossCountry Mortgage

Pennsylvania

15 years in business

Victoria Kammer is an Originating Branch Manager at CrossCountry Mortgage, specializing in first-time homebuyers, jumbo loans, non-QM loans, purchase, and refinance. With a passion for the mortgage industry, Victoria has dedicated the past 15 years to supporting clients through the loan process and helping them find the home of their dreams. She recently earned recognition on Scotsman Guide’s 2025 Top Originators list. Victoria is a graduate of Lafayette College and resides in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 

Ryan Kearns | 37

Kearns Mortgage Team, LLC

Florida

4 years in business

In just four years, Ryan Kearns has grown Kearns Mortgage Team from a solo start into a six-member brokerage known for client-first service and steady year-over-year growth despite challenging market environments. By blending education with technology, he creates clarity and confidence for families navigating the mortgage process. He serves on Hillsborough County’s Affordable Housing Advisory Board, shaping initiatives that expand opportunity.

Abdel Khawatmi | 35

PRMG

New Jersey

7 years in business

Abdel Khawatmi is the Branch Manager at PRMG & a President’s Cabinet Member recognized among the nation’s top 1% mortgage originator. A visionary leader known for scaling teams through technology, automation, and culture, he’s redefined what modern lending looks like. From national stages to mastermind events, Abdel empowers loan officers to systemize success, serve with impact, and build sustainable growth through innovation reshaping the modern

Eric Krattenstein | 37

American Heritage Lending

New Jersey

10 years in business

Eric Krattenstein is the Managing Director of American Heritage Lending, leading national sales, marketing, and growth for one of the nation’s premier Non-QM and private lenders. With over a decade of executive experience in real estate finance, he drives scalable growth through data-driven strategy, innovation, and leadership that continues to redefine Non-QM lending nationwide.

Erica LaCentra | 35

RCN Capital

Connecticut

13 years in business

Erica LaCentra, CMO at RCN Capital, has transformed the brand into a national leader. Her fearless leadership, strategic vision, and mentorship drive award-winning campaigns and industry innovation. Honored by MPA, NMP and more, she’s earned widespread recognition for her impact, with multiple industry accolades celebrating her innovation and influence. Erica is a trailblazer in private lending and a role model for women in marketing.

Christopher Leon | 39

CrossCountry Mortgage

Arizona

13 years in business

Chris Leon is a Regional Vice President and Originating Branch Manager at CrossCountry Mortgage. Based in Sierra Vista, Arizona, Chris has been recognized as a Scotsman Guide Top Originator since 2016 and as the #1 Latino Mortgage Originator in the Southwest by National Association of Real Estate Agents. Chris is dedicated to serving his borrowers as a loan officer, bringing the dream of homeownership to members of community.

Daniel Lemeshev | 29

CrossCountry

Mortgage

New Jersey

3 years in business

Daniel Lemeshev is the SVP of Mortgage Lending at CrossCountry Mortgage, specializing in purchase, refinance, and first-time homebuyers. He has earned recognition as a Top 40 loan originator in the U.S., according to Scotsman Guide. Daniel is based in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Andy Levison | 38

Groundfloor Lending

Georgia

5 years in business

Andy Levison is the Associate Director of Retail Originations at Groundfloor Lending. Since joining in 2020, he is the company’s top producer. Fluent in Spanish, he drives growth among the company’s Spanish speaking demo. In 2025 alone, he is projected to originate more than $110 million in loan volume. In 2023, he was tasked with expanding Groundfloor’s presence in Nashville, which has since become a key growth area. He also mentors new hires.

Bryan Lovern | 37

CrossCountry Mortgage

Maryland

11 years in business

Bryan Lovern is an Originating Branch Manager at CrossCountry Mortgage. Since joining the mortgage industry in 2013, Bryan has used his years of experience as a sales manager to become an expert in FHA loans, refinances, and the local market, providing exceptional customer service to his clients. Bryan is based in Crofton, Maryland.

Rocco Mandarino | 28

Maverick Lending NYC

New Jersey

1 year in business

Rocco Mandarino, Branch Manager of Maverick Lending NYC, is one of private lending’s fastest-rising leaders. Specializing exclusively in DSCR and investor financing, he partners with top brokers, luxury SFR investors, and build-to-rent developers nationwide. Having surpassed $100M in his first year, Rocco is redefining speed, precision, and execution as the new gold standard in private lending.

Justin Margolis | 35

PRMG

Florida

13 years in business

Justin Margolis is a top 1% Originator and PRMG President’s Cabinet member known for his leadership in Non-QM lending. As VP of Non-QM Business Development and Branch Sales Manager, he drives growth, optimizes operations, and supports partners across Retail, Wholesale, and Correspondent channels. A Scotsman Guide Top Originator, Justin brings expertise, energy, and a results-driven focus to every transaction.

Tracy Mock | 37

Gateway Mortgage

Texas

10 years in business

Tracy Mock, is a Mortgage Sales Manager for Gateway Mortgage based in San Antonio with a decade of industry experience. She focuses on helping first-time buyers navigate FHA, VA, conventional, and down-payment assistance programs with straightforward guidance, proactive updates, and disciplined loan management. Tracy’s approach combines clear budgeting, realistic timelines, and consistent communication to minimize surprises and keep transactions.

Allison Moore | 27

Leader Bank

Massachusetts

3 years in business

Alli joined Leader Bank after grad-school and immediately made an impact with creative solutions for connecting with real estate agents and educating homebuyers. Alli is dedicated to developing accessible educational tools, classes, and content for young homebuyers, and to empowering her generation to get access to powerful wealth-building tools. Her impact at Leader has been instantly positive, and we’re proud to have her on the team.

Joseph Morley | 26

Park Place Finance

Texas

3 years in business

Joseph Morley is a Senior Account Executive at Park Place Finance, supporting lending operations and driving revenue growth. He specializes in building strong client relationships, developing strategic partnerships, and delivering consistent results through deep industry knowledge and proven sales expertise.

Abbie Newell | 31

American Heritage Lending

Arizona

11 years in business

Abbie Newell is a seasoned Mortgage Closer at American Heritage Lending, bringing over a decade of experience; known for her precision, communication, and care, she ensures every deal, from purchase to refinance, closes smoothly. Her expertise across FHA, VA, USDA, and state housing programs strengthens AHL’s commitment to service and excellence.

Daniel Norris | 33

American Heritage Lending

California

4 years in business

Daniel Norris is a Sr. Relationship Manager at American Heritage Lending, where he builds and maintains strong partnerships with brokers and clients nationwide. With over four years at AHL, Daniel is known for his responsiveness, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering the speed and service that define Non-QM lending redefined.

Phi Nguyen | 30

American Heritage Lending

California

5 years in business

Phi Nguyen is a Senior Loan Processor at American Heritage Lending, bringing over four years of Non-QM experience and a unique background in education. Her strong communication and problem-solving skills help guide clients through each step with care and precision. Known for her balance, empathy, and dedication, Phi embodies AHL’s people-first approach to lending.

Kylie Raffi | 28

Southern Trust Mortgage

Virginia

6 years in business

A top-producing loan officer with six years of experience at Southern Trust Mortgage, Kylie Raffi is dedicated to helping Hampton Roads families achieve homeownership. In 2024, she earned the Virginia Housing Bronze Award for assisting 23 families and securing $380,000 in grants, a testament to her commitment to affordable lending, community impact, and unwavering dedication as a trusted advocate for her clients and partners.

Brandon Reilly | 30

Southern Trust Mortgage

Virginia

8 years in business

A Hampden-Sydney College graduate with a background in construction and eight years of mortgage experience, Brandon Reilly is a trusted leader in Richmond, VA. Specializing in first-time, jumbo, and construction loans, he guides clients with patience and expertise. Brandon’s consultative style and community focus reflect his belief that every client deserves personalized care and attention.

Lauren Robert | 35

Leader Bank

Massachusetts

5 years in business

In 2023, Lauren helped launch Leader Bank’s Cape Cod Mortgage Office and has spent the time since helping to build the Leader Cape Team from the #11 to the #2 Purchase Lender in the area. Her personal expertise and experience has seen her own volume rise over 40% to $40 million and counting in 2025. In the last few years she has successfully built her own business, helped build a whole new loan office, and raise 3 children. She is a rock star!
 

Charles Ryan | 35

PRMG

Georgia

13 years in business

Charles Ryan is a top-producing Account Executive celebrated for his unwavering dedication, professionalism, and passion for helping clients succeed. With multiple 5-star reviews, Charles has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional service, clear and confident communication, and personalized lending solutions tailored to each client’s unique goals.
 

Jordan Saceda | 38

E Mortgage Capital

California

8 years in business

Born in Juneau, Alaska, Jordan Saceda learned early that smart financial decisions matter more than income. After moving to California, he found his calling in mortgages-helping families and investors navigate real estate with clarity. Jordan treats every client like family because he knows what’s at stake when financing a home.

Andres Saias | 32

RBI Private Lending

Florida

15 years in business

Andres Saias, Chief Lending Officer & founding Board Member at RBI Private Lending, is a seasoned real estate finance expert in real estate investment finance. With degrees from Georgetown (M.S. Real Estate) & Boston U, he’s driven RBI’s growth since 2015.

Milad Shamoun | 29

Loan Goat

California

4 years in business

Milad Shamoun, Founder of Loan Goat, is a dominant force in California’s real estate finance world. A former U.S. Marine Sergeant, he transformed military precision into business excellence. Today, he stands as one of the top residential & commercial hard money lenders in the state. Known for creative marketing, funding large loans, deep market expertise, & relentless drive, Milad has made Loan Goat a gold standard in trust, speed, & results.

Kayla Tarabay | 32

Novus Home Mortgage

Massachusetts

3 years in business

With a kind-hearted approach and strong work ethic, Kayla Tarabay guides clients through every step of the mortgage process with clarity and care. Kayla’s dedication and commitment to building her personal brand have taken her business to new heights this year. Outside of work, Kayla is a proud mom, dog lover, and fitness enthusiast who believes life should be filled with energy, purpose, and a little fun.

Kevin Victoria | 30

CV3 Financial Services

Arizona

7 years in business

In 7 years, Kevin has risen from Sales Associate to VP of Sales. He led his team of 11 originators to break company records, funding $800M/1,500 units in 2 years. A transformative leader with exceptional sales acumen and relentless work ethic, Kevin’s impact reaches far beyond his own production of $100M+. Balancing scale with personalized service, he has built systems, launched initiatives and solidified partnerships to drive enduring success.

Chaim Weiser | 30

The Leopard Group

New York

6 years in business

Chaim Weiser, Loan Officer at The Leopard Group, is rapidly earning recognition in the mortgage industry. Specializing in QM, Non-QM, bridge, HELOC, and commercial financing, he is known for precision, responsiveness, and strategic deal structuring. With strong relationships and a results-driven approach, Chaim delivers high-impact solutions and stands out as a true Top Emerging Star.

Julia Willetts | 27

Merchants Mortgage

Colorado

9 years in business

Julia Willetts began her career at Merchants in 2016 and has since earned two promotions, now serving as Vice President of Loan Originations. Over the past year, she has funded more than $108M in loans across 15 states, helping real estate investors finance both rehab and new construction projects, while leading a team of loan originators that deliver exceptional service from start to finish.

Matthew Ziegert | 35

CrossCountry Mortgage

New Jersey

9 years in business

Matthew Ziegert is a Divisional Sales Manager at CrossCountry Mortgage specializing in purchase and refinance. He built his business around helping clients achieve homeownership by finding the ideal loan for their unique circumstances. Matthew has ranked in the top 1% of loan officers nationwide for the last eight years. He resides in Rockaway, New Jersey, with his wife and children. 

Julian Zimmerman | 29

Groundfloor Lending

Kansas

6 years in business

Julian Zimmerman is the Director of Lending Operations at Groundfloor, where she has transformed the company’s lending infrastructure and operational efficiency since joining as a processor in 2020. In 2023, she built Groundfloor’s Loan Origination System and Borrower Portal from the ground up, doubling originations and improving compliance. In 2024, she launched the servicing platform, unifying and modernizing the borrower experience.
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