Lending Operations Director
First American Financial - Irving, TX
posted 4 months ago
About the position
Join a team that puts its People First! As a member of First American's family of companies, Mortgage Solutions provides lenders with solutions to originate, close, and service quality loans. Since 1889, First American (NYSE: FAF) has held an unwavering belief in its people. They are passionate about what they do, and we are equally passionate about fostering an environment where all feel welcome, supported, and empowered to be innovative and reach their full potential. Our inclusive, people-first culture has earned our company numerous accolades, including being named to the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® list for nine consecutive years. We have also earned awards as a best place to work for women, diversity, and LGBTQ+ employees, and have been included on more than 50 regional best places to work lists. First American will always strive to be a great place to work, for all. Are you ready to lead a dynamic, growing lending division dedicated to innovation and customer satisfaction? We are seeking a visionary leader to bridge the traditional gap between lending and title & escrow functions, utilizing cutting-edge technology to optimize processes and drive exceptional results. This is your chance to join a forward-thinking organization committed to redefining the future of lending operations. This pivotal role demands a unique blend of skills, drawing on expertise in Lending Operations, Title & Escrow Processes, Technology & Innovation, and Leadership & Strategy. You will develop and execute an operational strategy aligned with business goals, oversee all facets of lender operations from origination to post-closing, and lead the evaluation and optimization of technology solutions. You will also recruit, build, and mentor a high-performing team while ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations and developing robust risk management policies to mitigate potential risks.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute an operational strategy aligned with business goals.
- Identify growth opportunities, including product development and strategic partnerships.
- Stay ahead of industry trends to inform strategic decisions.
- Oversee all facets of lender operations from origination to post-closing.
- Evaluate and refine processes, leveraging technology for efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Implement KPIs to track progress and drive accountability.
- Lead the evaluation and optimization of technology solutions.
- Ensure seamless integration of technology platforms across the loan lifecycle.
- Foster a culture of innovation by exploring emerging technologies.
- Recruit, build, and mentor a high-performing team.
- Create a positive work environment that prioritizes professional development.
- Communicate effectively and celebrate team successes.
- Oversee the lender division's budget and P&L.
- Negotiate vendor contracts and seek cost optimization opportunities.
- Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
- Develop robust risk management policies to mitigate potential risks.
Requirements
- A bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, or a related field is required.
- A master's degree (e.g., MBA) is highly desirable.
- 15+ years of leadership experience in the mortgage lending industry.
- Comprehensive understanding of the entire loan lifecycle and regulatory requirements.
- Proficiency with industry-leading lending technologies (e.g., Resware, Docutech).
- Skilled in budgeting, forecasting, and vendor negotiation.
- Exceptional communication with stakeholders.
- Ability to lead teams through transformation with adaptability.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience in client partnership excellence, elevating client relationships beyond the traditional vendor role.
- Ability to serve as a trusted advisor and foster transparent communication.
Benefits
- Employee stock purchase plan
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- 401(k)
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
- Paid sick time
