Lending Operations Director

Who We Are

Join a team that puts its People First! As 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. For more information, please visit www.careers.firstam.com.

What We Do

The Opportunity 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. About the Role: This pivotal role demands a unique blend of skills, drawing on expertise in: Lending Operations: Mastery of the entire loan lifecycle from origination to post-closing, coupled with a thorough understanding of regulations and industry best practices. Title & Escrow Processes: A comprehensive understanding of title & escrow operations, ensuring seamless integration with lending processes. Technology & Innovation: Embrace technology as a catalyst for efficiency and competitive advantage, focusing on implementing innovative solutions. Leadership & Strategy: Build high-performing teams, foster collaboration, and execute a compelling vision for the future.

What You'll Do:

Strategic Leadership: 

• 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. 

Operational Excellence: 

• 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. 

Technology Optimization: 

• 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. 

Team Leadership & Development: 

• Recruit, build, and mentor a high-performing team. 
• Create a positive work environment that prioritizes professional development. 
• Communicate effectively and celebrate team successes. 

Financial Management: 

• Oversee the lender division's budget and P&L. 
• Negotiate vendor contracts and seek cost optimization opportunities. 

Compliance & Risk Management: 

• Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations. 
• Develop robust risk management policies to mitigate potential risks. 

What You'll Bring:

Education: 

• A bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, or a related field is required. 
• A master’s degree (e.g., MBA) is highly desirable. 

Experience: 

• 15+ years of leadership experience in the mortgage lending industry. 

Technical Expertise: 

• Comprehensive understanding of the entire loan lifecycle and regulatory requirements. 
• Proficiency with industry-leading lending technologies (e.g., Resware, Docutech). 

Key Skills: 

• Strategic Planning & Execution: Translate vision into action with effective strategies. 
• Leadership & Team Building: Build and manage high-performing teams. 
• Operational Excellence: Optimize efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction. 
• Financial Acumen: Skilled in budgeting, forecasting, and vendor negotiation. 
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional communication with stakeholders. 
• Change Management: Lead teams through transformation with adaptability. 
• Client Partnership Excellence: Excel at elevating client relationships beyond the traditional vendor role, becoming a true trusted partner to originators, servicers, and investors. This involves deeply understanding clients’ strategic goals, proactively offering innovative solutions, and consistently delivering value beyond contracted services. The ability to serve as a trusted advisor, foster transparent communication, and demonstrate a vested interest in long-term success is crucial. 

Join us as we redefine the future of lending operations. Apply now if you are driven by innovation, excellence, and a passion for leading teams to success! 

Pay Range: $114,600 - $152,800 USD Annually.

This hiring range is a reasonable estimate of the base pay range for this position at the time of posting.  Pay is based on a number of factors which may include job-related knowledge, skills, experience, business requirements and geographic location.

What We Offer

By choice, we don’t simply accept individuality – we embrace it, we support it, and we thrive on it! Our People First Culture celebrates diversity, equity and inclusion not simply because it’s the right thing to do, but also because it’s the key to our success. We are proud to foster an authentic and inclusive workplace For All. You are free and encouraged to bring your entire, unique self to work. First American is an equal opportunity employer in every sense of the term.

Based on eligibility, First American offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401k, PTO/paid sick leave and other great benefits like an employee stock purchase plan.