Notable mortgage industry hires and promotions: TWO Edition 2020

Notable mortgage industry hires and promotions: TWO Edition 2020

 
Gates

Digital mortgage platform developer SimpleNexus has elected senior sales executive Cathleen Schreiner Gates as the newest addition to its board of directors. A former executive vice president of sales and marketing at Ellie Mae from 2015 to 2019, Gates brings 35 years of experience driving growth at software-as-a-service firms. She is also CEO of independent consulting company Trifecta, which she founded in 2009. She earned a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in finance and computer technology from Rutgers University.

 
Hepp

CoreLogic has announced that Selma Hepp has joined the company as deputy chief economist. In her new role, she will communicate CoreLogic’s applied research to the company’s various audiences and expand the visibility of CoreLogic’s economic policy unit. Most recently, she served as chief economist and vice president of business intelligence at Compass and Pacific Union international. Her experience also includes serving as chief economist at Trulia; senior economist for the California Association of Realtors; and economist and manager of public policy and homeownership at the National Association of Realtors. She earned her master’s degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a Ph.D. in urban economics from the University of Maryland.

 
Murray

Real estate fintech Compass has announced the election of Eileen Murray to its board of directors, effective April 2. She brings decades of experience to the board, including her current role as co-CEO of Bridgewater Associates, a position she has held since 2014. Prior to that, she has served as head of global technology, operations and product control at Credit Suisse, and held several leadership positions at Morgan Stanley. Murray holds a bachelor of science degree in accounting and an honorary doctoral degree from Manhattan College.

 
McCrory

Terra McCrory has joined Quality Mortgage Services as senior quality control mortgage analyst, a new hybrid position designed to attract industry talent to fulfill key audit positions in a remote capacity. McCrory’s role will assist QMS in bringing additional industry expertise to their review, audit and analysis components of quality control. Prior to joining QMS, she worked for Guild Mortgage Company as quality assurance and risk manager. She has also held positions at Corporate Mortgage Advisors, Fieldstone Mortgage and Rancho Vista National Bank.

 
Brink

WFG National Title Insurance Company has promoted Jacquie Brink to senior vice president and Great Lakes Division manager. In her new role, she will work with independent title agencies in Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. She brings more than three decades of industry experience to the position, including five years as associate vice president and Midwest agency representative at WFG. She has also held positions at Best Homes Title Agency and Chicago Title Insurance Company. Brink earned her bachelor of business administration degree from the University of Texas.

 
Botting

Avison Young, a commercial real estate services firm based in Toronto, has hired Sheila Botting as principal and president of its newly established Professional Services practice in the Americas. Botting, who joins the company on May 4, will set the strategy and growth trajectory of the new practice as the firm invests in expanding its integrated services offerings to meet clients’ business goals. She joins Avison Young from Deloitte LLP, where she has been senior partner and Canadian real estate leader, as well as a member of its global real estate executive team. She also previously held executive positions with Cushman & Wakefield Americas.

 
Halliday

Guaranteed Rate has expanded its California presence with new vice president of mortgage lending Erin Halliday in Huntington Beach. She comes to Guaranteed Rate after nearly six years at Wells Fargo, with previous experience at RPM Mortgage, DLJ Financial, Quantum Law Firm and Secured Funding. She holds a bachelor of science degree in business finance from the University of Southern California.

 
Jenkins

Homespire Mortgage has announced the addition of Shondra B. Jenkins as director of philanthropy and community engagement. Jenkins brings nearly 20 years of experience in social responsibility programs to the company; in her new role, she will work to strengthen and further develop Homespire’s “Inspired to Impact” social responsibility program, which focuses on helping to eradicate homelessness and increasing homeownership for veterans. Prior to joining Homespire, she founded and was CEO of SBJ Consulting and led philanthropy efforts for food service and facilities company Sodexo.

 
Arunkumar

Archana Arunkumar has joined the advisory board of San Francisco-based document processing fintech AREAL.ai. Arunkumar has held various leadership positions throughout the technology field, including her current position as director of product at Dropbox and previous experience in the same role at Ellie Mae. She holds a master of business administration degree in technology management, marketing and finance from the University of California, Davis, and master of science and bachelor of science degrees from California State University, East Bay.

 
Hume
 
Wylie

Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc. (PRMI) has promoted Brandi Hume to senior vice president of risk management and Hollie Wylie to vice president of compliance. Hume, a 28-year veteran of the mortgage industry, joins the executive leadership team after serving in the company for 11 years, most recently as vice president of quality assurance. Wylie, meanwhile, has been in the mortgage business for over 30 years, spending the past seven as PRMI’s director of compliance.

 
Ketchum

Yvonne Ketchum has been named president of Kind Lending, the new mortgage lending company launched by entrepreneur Glenn Stearns. Ketchum’s record of more than 30 years in mortgage banking includes 15 years at Stearns Lending.

 
Dalton


Mortgage Cadence
has announced the appointment of Cate Dalton to executive vice president of customer advocacy. Dalton has 25 years of financial services experience, including 18 years of leadership at Stewart Title. She has a bachelor of arts in drama from the University of Southern California. 

 
Green

Irene Green has been elected to the position of senior vice president of mortgage lending by First Financial Bank’s board of directors. She will join the company’s new mortgage office in Austin, Texas, bringing to her new role more than 30 years in the financial services industry, including over 19 in mortgage lending. Before joining First Financial, she worked for Simmons Bank in Austin for over 13 years, most recently as senior vice president and branch manager.

 
Nickoles

The Steven J. Sless Group of Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc., has added Brandy Nickoles as processing manager dealing solely with reverse mortgages. She will be responsible for managing the loan pipeline, analyzing documentation and loan scenarios, creating and implementing procedures, training and overseeing team members and maintaining customer service levels for the Baltimore-based Steven J. Sless Group. She has 15 years of experience on both the wholesale and retail side of mortgage operations, with the last six years focused exclusively on reverse mortgages.

 
Klombies

Mortgage software fintech Total Expert has added Anna Klombies as its new chief people officer. Prior to joining Total Expert, Klombies was most recently senior vice president of human resources at SportsEngine. She has also held leadership roles at CBS MarketWatch and Dow Jones. Klombies, who has over 25 years of operational human resources experience, will focus on professional development, people operations, coaching, mentoring and improving company culture in her new role. Klombies graduated summa cum laude at Concordia University, St. Paul.

 
Lee

Compliance consulting firm Mortgage Quality Management and Research (MQMR) has announced the promotion of Mabel Lee to warehouse due diligence manager. Lee — who first joined MQMR as internal audit manager in 2018 — will oversee the company’s team of operations risk managers in her new role. She has more than 30 years of experience in the mortgage business, having previously served as customer account risk manager, credit risk manager and quality control manager at Fannie Mae and customer performance analysis supervisor and senior mortgage analyst at Freddie Mac. She holds an executive master of business administration degree from Claremont Graduate University and a bachelor of science degree in business administration from San Francisco State University.

 
Boccia

Wyndham Capital Mortgage has announced that Barbara Boccia has joined the company as senior vice president of risk and compliance. She has more than 25 years of experience in legal and regulatory risk and compliance; before joining Wyndham, she served as senior director of advisory services and regulatory relations at Wolters Kluwer. She earned a Juris Doctor deree from the University of the Pacific’s McGeorge School of Law and carries an master’s degree in business administration from San Francisco State University. She will be based out of Wyndham Capital’s office in Charlotte.

 
Krumm

LenderClose, a proprietary lending platform based in Des Moines, Iowa, has added Tana Krumm as vice president of marketing. Her new role will involve formulating new marketing strategies to meet the company’s growth targets. Krumm has an extensive background in marketing for finance and healthcare services, most recently serving as marketing communications consultant for American Enterprise Group. Prior to that, she held leadership roles at Two Rivers Marketing, ZLR Ignition and TMG.

 
McFarland

Independent mortgage lender Mortgage Network, Inc., has added Rochelle McFarland as a loan officer in its Danvers, Massachusetts branch. Her financial services career began as a stockbroker for Salomon Smith Barney in New York before she became a private banker at JPMorgan Chase’s Madison Avenue location. She earned her bachelor of science degree from the University of Scranton and her master of business administration degree in international business and finance from Schiller International University in Madrid. She also has a master of arts teaching degree in Spanish from Salem State University.

 
Carbonara

Landtrust Title Services, a Chicago-based title insurance agency, has added Carmen Carbonara as director of sales for residential services. She has 13 years of experience in the residential title-insurance industry, most recently serving as business development officer for Stewart Title Co. She is a board member of the Women’s Council of Realtors and a past member of the board of directors of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals. 

 
Adams

Kelly Adams has joined risk transfer solutions company Miniter Group as vice president of operations and tracking, responsible for the overall management of its “Borrower-Centric” insurance tracking operations. Before joining the company, she had 20 years of experience in insurance, 11 of which were spent as director of operations at Arbella Insurance Company.

 
York

Michigan credit union service organization Neighborhood Mortgage Solutions (NMS) has announced the appointment of Jamie York as its newest CEO effective April 7. She has held a number of leadership positions at the company after joining NMS in January 2009 as office manager. Most recently, she served as chief operating officer for the organization, a position where she has been instrumental in setting up NMS’ current secondary market department.

 
Garza

Ohio’s Union Home Mortgage has announced the promotion of Cyndi Garza to vice presidents of sales. She will provide leadership to sales teams from the Upper Midwest to Nevada and Arizona. Garza has been with Union Home Mortgage since 2011, opening the first branch in Michigan. 

 
Dunlap

CMG Financial, a mortgage banking company headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, has announced the hiring of Tamara Dunlap as regional vice president of Colorado. She has more than 26 years of mortgage leadership experience at regional and national lenders throughout the western U.S., including companies such as CountryWide Home Loans, Matrix Financial Services and Capital Commerce/American Home Mortgage. Most recently, she spent four years as regional manager at CityWide Home Loans.

 
Brandriss

Chava Brandriss has joined the banking and financial services team of national law firm Davis Wright Tremaine (DWT). She will work as a partner in its Washington, D.C., office, joining the firm from Hogan Lovells. Brandriss will represent banks, mortgage lenders and servicers in class actions, mass claims, appeals and large portfolios of individual lawsuits, as well as supporting the team’s work with California fintech companies.

 
Sherrell

Open Mortgage has added Sherry Sherrell as regional branch manager of a new branch in Fayetteville, Arkansas. She will be responsible for overseeing the new location, as well as branches in Rogers, Arkansas; Grove, Oklahoma; and Joplin, Missouri. She has a long history in the mortgage industry, including previous experience at PRMG, USA Mortgage, Financial Concepts Mortgage, Bank of Arkansas, Wells Fargo and Associated Mortgage Co. 

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For Top Mortgage Lenders rankings going back to 2010, see the June editions of the magazine in our digital magazine library

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.

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.

Nate Clear | 36

FirstFunding Inc

City, TX

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!
 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Jessica Davolio | 35

Leader Bank

Massachusetts

6 years in business

Jess is a client advocate. She works through complicated and difficult deals with an unmatched tenacity. Her clients are consistently amazed by her consistent efforts to put them in the best financial position. In her first year with Leader Bank she grew her production volume by 90% to over $25 million and is set for even greater heights in 2026. She’s active in local mom’s groups, a golfer, and she never shies away from trying something new!

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