Manager of Real Estate Lending
A dynamic and results-driven professional is sought for the role of Manager of Real Estate Lending. This leadership position is integral to the success of the mortgage lending function, overseeing daily operations and driving a high-performing team to meet ambitious sales and production goals.
The Manager will be responsible for ensuring consistent, exceptional service to members while maintaining full compliance with federal, state, NCUA, and secondary market regulations. This role requires the implementation of innovative programs, streamlined processes, and staff incentives that align with departmental and organizational objectives. The position includes oversight of all key functions in the mortgage lifecycle, including origination, processing, underwriting, closing, and post-closing.
In addition to operational excellence, this individual will provide strategic direction and foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous development. The role requires regular interaction with senior leadership, external vendors, and members to ensure efficiency, compliance, and an outstanding member experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage daily operations of the Mortgage Lending Department to achieve performance goals and member satisfaction.
- Act as the system administrator for mortgage origination platforms; demonstrate strong technical proficiency in managing systems and resolving technical issues.
- Create and analyze reports, automate workflows, and collaborate with IT or external vendors to optimize system performance.
- Develop and implement strategic processes, incentive programs, and team metrics to ensure departmental success.
- Oversee all HR functions within the department including hiring, training, performance evaluations, and employee development.
- Ensure strict adherence to personnel policies, including compliance with anti-discrimination and harassment standards.
- Supervise functional areas across the mortgage lending spectrum: origination, processing, underwriting, closing, and post-closing.
- Provide applicants with loan product guidance, rate information, payment expectations, and qualification criteria.
- Qualify applicants according to internal lending philosophies and secondary market guidelines.
- Monitor pipeline files for compliance, documentation accuracy, and regulatory adherence.
- Counsel applicants through the mortgage process and resolve any concerns or complaints.
- Report unusual findings or exceptions to executive leadership and recommend solutions.
- Assist with vendor selection and performance monitoring to ensure compliance and service standards.
- Maintain accurate accounting of mortgage-related fees; coordinate with finance and servicing teams to resolve funding and servicing issues.
- Ensure daily reconciliation and balancing of departmental activity.
- Track and report on departmental performance metrics; escalate issues as appropriate.
- Address audit findings and implement required changes to processes or individual loans.
- Underwrite, process, or disburse loans as needed, including those for senior officials.
- Oversee preparation of final loan packages and authorize disbursement of closing funds.
- Submit monthly pipeline and closed loan reports to executive leadership.
- Work with collections and risk teams to monitor delinquent loans and recommend process improvements.
- Collaborate with finance and marketing teams to develop competitive mortgage programs and assess risk.
- Maintain cross-departmental workflow efficiency and interdepartmental communication.
- Manage inventory and control of supplies and equipment for the department.
- Conduct regular team meetings, participate in management-level discussions, and lead internal training initiatives.
- Maintain and update procedural documentation for all departmental functions.
- Research and recommend new mortgage products to maintain a competitive and progressive lending program.
- Prepare and manage the department’s annual budget.
- Present educational mortgage seminars to members on a semi-annual basis.
- Work extended or weekend hours as needed, based on department workload.
Qualifications and Competencies
- Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or a related field required.
- Minimum of five years of experience in the mortgage industry, including experience in origination, processing, servicing, and underwriting.
- At least four years of leadership or supervisory experience in a mortgage or financial services setting.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and mortgage software such as FICS and LenderLive.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Initiative, professionalism, and a commitment to high-quality member service.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet or exceed performance and compliance standards.
