DSNews delivers stories, ideas, links, companies, people, events, and videos impacting the mortgage default servicing industry.
Issue link: http://digital.dsnews.com/i/1531277
11 January 2025 January 2025 » M O V E R S & S H A K E R S modernization project that improves Issuers' operational effectiveness and simplifies procedures. "With over a decade of service at Ginnie Mae and an expansive career in housing finance, Leslie has left an indel- ible mark on the agency," said Gregory Keith, Acting Executive VP and COO at Ginnie Mae. "Her leadership, vision, and dedication have strengthened Issuer partnerships, modernized critical pro- cesses, and enhanced the resilience of our operations. Her contributions have positioned Ginnie Mae for continued success. On a personal level, Leslie has always been a champion for doing what is best for American homeowners, rent- ers, assisted living and skilled nursing patients, and the taxpayers." Harlan Jones will take over as Acting SVP of Issuer and Portfolio Management. Jones contributes a wealth of knowledge and a thorough comprehen- sion of Ginnie Mae's business practices. "Leslie not only cared deeply about Ginnie Mae's success but also about the broader housing finance industry," said Ted Tozer, Former Ginnie Mae President. "She was a dedicated leader and will be missed by all who had the privilege of working with her." Thinking back on her tenure at Gin- nie Mae, Meaux Pordzik had this to say: "It has been an honor and a privilege to serve at Ginnie Mae. I am immensely proud of the work we've accomplished to strengthen Issuer oversight, modern- ize processes, and protect the govern- ment guaranty. I leave confidently that the agency is well positioned to meet its mission thanks to the dedication of my colleagues and the entire Ginnie Mae team." Lenders/Servicers FLAGSTAR APPOINTS NEW BOARD MEMBER Brian Callanan, Senior Managing Director and General Counsel at Liberty Strategic Capital, has been appointed to Flagstar Financial Inc.'s Board of Directors. "I'm pleased to have Brian join our Board," said Joseph M. Otting, Chair- man, President, and CEO of Flagstar. "His proven track record and expertise in financial services, along with his strategic insights will be instrumental as we continue to execute on our trans- formation and long-term vision. Brian's perspectives will provide valuable guidance, and his leadership will play a critical role in driving sustainable growth, ensuring we achieve long-term success and maximize the value we deliver to our shareholders, employees, and clients." Callanan is a renowned attorney in the industry with a wealth of knowl- edge in financial technology, regulatory compliance, and financial regulation. Callanan oversees the legal department at Liberty, is a member of the Invest- ment Committee, and concentrates on investments in the financial industry. He was the General Counsel of the U.S. De- partment of the Treasury before joining Liberty, where he was in charge of 2,000 attorneys. In his capacity as Chief General Counsel, he was instrumental in signif- icant projects like the creation of new economic sanctions, the execution of tax reform, and economic rescue plans during COVID-19. Among his duties as Deputy General Counsel, Callanan oversaw significant litigation and pro- vided advice on initiatives for regula- tory reform. The department's highest honor, the Alexander Hamilton Award, was given to him for his service. This appointment is in line with the terms of the $1.05 billion equity investment made in March 2024, which stated that Liberty Strategic Capital, the primary investor, would be given two Board seats. Callanan joins the Company's Board of Directors, which was reorganized earlier in 2024 and now consists of nine members: Marshall Lux, Milton Berlinski, Alessandro P. DiNello, Alan Frank, Jennifer Whip, Lead Inde- pendent Director Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin, Allen Puwalski, and Chair- man, President, and CEO Otting. FAIRWAY PROMOTES NEW PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS Linda Davidson, an industry veteran and former President of National Branch Optimization, has been promoted to the critical position of Operations at Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. "Linda embodies two of Fairway's most important Core Values—Humility and Creating an Amazing Experience for our customers," said Steve Jacobson, CEO and Founder of Fairway. "Having Linda lead companywide initiatives to improve our operations will result in an improved borrowing experience for our clients." Davidson has an impressive 28- year mortgage industry career, which includes six prosperous years at Fairway. She offers a plethora of expertise to her new role. She has continuously per- formed exceptionally well in a variety of positions, such as top Area Leader, top Branch Manager, and top Loan Origina- tor. She has also provided her vast orig- ination and management experience to the Core Executive Advisory Team, where her ideas have been helpful. Along with leading corporate-level strategic initiatives to boost operational efficiencies and strengthen Fairway's position as the industry leader in oper- ational support, Davidson will continue to oversee her branches and region in her increased role. Davidson hopes to further improve the company's capacity