As a member of the credit policy team, the Lending Manager is responsible for increasing the CompanyÂ’s growth and productivity through the implementation of new loan products and services that are in line with the companyÂ’s strategic goals and objectives. This person will analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of lending originations by recommending and executing policy/program changes as… directed. They will collaborate with Operations and Sales leadership to ensure continuity and consistency of all products, programs and services across the enterprise. This person will also monitor and maintain the quality and integrity of lending programs and services. They will provide and promote an environment of quality service both externally and internally. In addition, the Lending Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, implementing, and directing all credit policy related matters for our retail underwriting division. This person will work closely with all Underwriting Managers to ensure consistent and high-quality underwriting standards. This position reports directly to the Chief Credit Officer
Essential Job Functions
• Recommend, implement, and maintain credit policies for all lending products in alignment with the company’s risk appetite and objectives.
• Collaborate with the AI and automations team on enhancement projects to optimize credit policy decision-making processes and workflows.
• Continuously monitor and evaluate credit policy performance, identifying areas for improvement and ensuring effective risk management.
• Work closely with underwriting teams to provide guidance on policy interpretations and exceptions.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including Capital Markets, Compliance, Legal, and Sales teams, to ensure credit policies meet all regulatory standards and align with business goals.
• Analyze industry trends and market conditions to assess their impact on credit policy and recommend adjustments as necessary.
• Lead efforts in credit policy training and communication for key business partners and stakeholders in collaboration with our corporate trainer.
• Manage the implementation of new credit risk initiatives and ensure policies support the company’s growth strategy.
• Define, establish, and implement effective and manageable performance metrics for the underwriting team.
• Perform regular audits and reporting to track policy adherence and effectiveness established metrics and corporate goals.
• Collaborate with Underwriting Managers to identify training needs and develop strategies to address them.
• Assist in the development, implementation and effectiveness of the Underwriting Academy.
• Collaborate with our technology team on the design and develop of technology based services.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry regulations, guidelines, and best practices to ensure training materials are current and accurate.
• Provide ongoing support and resources to underwriters, addressing questions and concerns as they arise.
• Conduct regular assessments of underwriter performance and provide feedback to management.
• Assist in the evaluation and implementation of new underwriting tools and technologies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
Essential Job Skills
• Strong analytical skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in credit policy management, with a specific focus on Non-QM loans.
• Strong background in automation and experience working on enhancement projects with AI teams.
• Experience with the Encompass loan origination system is required.
• In-depth knowledge of retail lending products, credit risk, and regulatory requirements (e.g., TILA, RESPA, ECOA).
• Strong interpret data from multiple sources to make informed decisions.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Proven ability to manage projects and lead cross-functional teams.
Minimum Qualifications
• Experience in training or mentoring underwriters is highly desirable.
• Expert knowledge of Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Ginnie Mae and Non-QM underwriting guidelines.
• Ability to handle competing priorities effectively and within established timeframes.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a positive attitude
