Tag Archives: Management and Career Moves

Mortgage Hedge Advisory Firm Vice Capital Markets promotes Shawn Ansley to CIO

NOVI, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- Vice Capital Markets, a leading mortgage hedge advisory firm for independent lenders, banks and credit unions, announced today that it has promoted Shawn Ansley to chief information officer (CIO). As CIO, Ansley will be tasked with the continued development of information technologies and deepening integrations with the agencies and major loan origination systems and leading the development of new tools to enhance the client experience.

"Since joining our firm, Shawn has relentlessly driven Vice Capital to continually evolve and stay current with the ever-changing market and execution environments. This promotion is really more of a formal acknowledgement of the overreaching leadership and guidance that he had already been demonstrating for the last several years," said Vice Capital founder and principal Chris Bennett.

Having joined Vice Capital in 2005 after receiving his master's degree in Mathematics, Ansley worked his way up the Vice Capital ranks, most recently serving as managing director. He runs the quantitative analytics that underpin the firm's hedge advisory services and is credited with revolutionizing Vice Capital's pull though modeling for more accurate pipeline management.

Ansley is also responsible for automating many of Vice Capital's day-to-day processes to improve operational efficiency and eliminate opportunities for human error, including overseeing several LOS integrations to allow information to flow back-and-forth between Vice Capital and clients seamlessly. Ansley also developed proprietary APIs with both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to facilitate direct data pricing pulls and loan commitments with the GSEs, thereby dramatically speeding up this critical process.

"Having had the privilege of working with Chris, Troy and the Vice Capital team for more than 15 years, this promotion is truly an honor," Ansley said. "I look forward to spearheading the next phase of our software development initiatives, which will help drive an even better client experience while also dramatically enhancing the value, advice and service Vice Capital delivers to the market."

Founded in 2001, Vice Capital serves independent mortgage lenders and financial institutions of all sizes, with monthly mortgage production volumes ranging from $10 million to $5 billion a month. Last year, the company set a new internal trade volume record, trading more than $202 billion on behalf of its full service clients, and experienced a marked increase in its client base, including more than 50% growth in the credit union space. Today, one in every 15 mortgages originated in the United States are traded by Vice Capital or hedged using its proprietary software.

About Vice Capital Markets

Since 2001, Vice Capital Markets has successfully managed interest rate risk and maximized profitability on MBS trades and mortgage-related transactions for banks, credit unions and mortgage lenders of all sizes. With an average of more than 10 years' experience behind each of the traders on our team, Vice Capital has helped its clients realize, on average, a 25 to 55 bps improvement over their best effort execution, and Vice Capital's proprietary risk-management models and complex investor and agency best execution platform have consistently yielded safe and effective profit maximization for its clients. Learn more at https://www.vicecapitalmarkets.com/ or call (248) 869-8100.

Vice Capital Markets, a leading mortgage hedge advisory firm for independent lenders, banks and credit unions, announced today that it has promoted Shawn Ansley to chief information officer (CIO). As CIO, Ansley will be tasked with the continued development of information technologies and deepening integrations with the agencies and major loan origination systems.

Related link: https://www.vicecapitalmarkets.com/

EPIC Welcomes Shelley Yim

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants is pleased to welcome Shelley Yim who will partner with EPIC's leadership to focus on continuing to grow the firm's footprint with large complex Risk Management clients along with helping lead EPIC's burgeoning Winery Practice. Shelley will also support EPIC's Diversity & Inclusion strategy in her role on the EPIC Inclusion Council, focusing on supporting clients with their inclusion objectives.

Shelley brings over thirty-five years of experience in the global risk and insurance segment. She most recently led Aon's West Region Middle Market brokerage teams while handling several large, complex multi-national clients in the West in several industry segments. While Shelley is known for her large client expertise, her focus on coaching, mentoring, and developing diverse teams has been her passion for the past decade.

Recently named as a 2021 Business Insurance Women to Watch award recipient, Shelley acknowledged the importance of coaches and mentors to help develop strong teams to grow our businesses for the future.

"We are extremely pleased to welcome Shelley to EPIC," said Steve Denton, EPIC CEO. "Her experience and industry-specific expertise align perfectly with our focus on delivering complex risk solutions with a deep understanding of our clients' businesses."

"We're fortunate to add Shelley to our team of experts," said Marc Kunney, EPIC's President, Risk Management and National Specialties. "Our clients will benefit instantly from her perspective and expertise, particularly in today's challenging and dynamic marketplace." Shelley will work from the firm's San Francisco office.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants:

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail insurance brokerage, has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to clients. EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S.

Learn more: https://epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants is pleased to welcome Shelley Yim who will partner with EPIC's leadership to focus on continuing to grow the firm's footprint with large complex Risk Management clients along with helping lead EPIC's burgeoning Winery Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Avenu Insights & Analytics Adds Public Sector Talent in California

FRESNO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Avenu Insights & Analytics (Avenu) recently announced the addition of Rachelle Arizmendi as one of the company's Government Industry Advisors. Rachelle joins Avenu as a native Californian with a life-long career in serving the public sector and numerous leadership positions.

"Keeping pace with the rapid changes in technology, increased citizen expectations, and budget shortfalls are challenges that all state and local governments are facing," shared Avenu CEO, Paul Colangelo. "The addition of Rachelle Arizmendi helps bring direct industry experience to our client services team that strengthens how we deliver mission critical solutions to the governments we serve.

"Rachelle brings a wealth of public sector knowledge and success that will make a noticeable impact in how we solve challenges and offer creative solutions to our clients. Our key talent additions ensure that Avenu customers can continuously improve on, or in some cases completely reimagine their goals and capabilities in serving their communities."

Rachelle was first elected to California's Sierra Madre City Council in 2014 and re-elected in 2018. Her commitment and drive to improve the community led to being selected by her colleagues to serve as Mayor in 2017 and again in 2020. Currently, she is a California Governor appointee for the Department of Food & Agriculture Board and serves as the Board President of the Asian American Pacific Island Equity Alliance, Board Co-Chair of the National Coalition of Asian Pacific Association of Community Development, Board Secretary for Child360, and First Vice-President of the League of California's Cities Women's Caucus Board.

Additionally, Rachelle has dedicated herself to PACE (Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment) for the last 22 years, with the last six as Vice President and COO. PACE is a non-profit community development organization that serves over 40,000 people every year in areas of job training and employment, business development, environment & energy, affordable housing, and early childhood education.

When asked about her transition to Avenu, Rachelle responded, "Avenu is dedicated to helping state and local governments maximize revenue and optimize the way they operate. My life has been built around serving others and joining the team is truly an extension of that. I am fortunate to continue providing value to communities through our work here at Avenu."

About Avenu Insights & Analytics:

Over 3,000 state and local governments have partnered with Avenu to drive positive results for their communities through software administration and compliance auditing solutions. Avenu's comprehensive software solutions digitally transform government by modernizing processes, providing online access to records, and reducing costs. State and local governments also work closely with Avenu to increase revenue without raising taxes, streamline internal operations, and improve services by enhancing connectivity for constituents. Avenu is a portfolio company of Mill Point Capital.

To learn more, visit https://www.avenuinsights.com/

Avenu Insights & Analytics (Avenu) recently announced the addition of Rachelle Arizmendi as one of the company's Government Industry Advisors. Rachelle joins Avenu as a native Californian with a life-long career in serving the public sector and numerous leadership positions.

Related link: https://www.avenuinsights.com/

XLR8 Companies Announce the appointment of Mitchner Ferdinands as Chief Operating Officer

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- On April 18, 2022, Xelerate Logistics LLC ("XLR8") announced the appointment of Mitchner Ferdinands as the Chief Operating Officer. Mitchner Ferdinands, who has 20 years of experience in the Supply Chain industry, has extensively travelled in many countries to troubleshoot and find innovative and pragmatic solutions to ever evolving supply chain industry.

As the companies new COO, Mr. Ferdinands will be heading the operations of XLR8 Companies and all its affiliates including the Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers (NVOCC), and XLR8 Companies WEST that operates warehousing for Consolidations, Distributions & Ground Transportation.

Born in Sri Lanka and having graduated with a Master's in Business and other secondary education qualifications in supply chain; Mr. Ferdinands currently lives in Valencia, California.

About Xelerate Logistics LLC:

Xelerate Logistics LLC is a New York based company with Headquarters in New York City with offices in Commack, NY & Los Angeles, CA, and Global Operations in Canada, Asia, Africa & Middle East. The founding members of XLR8 managed and ran asset-based lending companies with portfolios in aggregate of over $500 million over the past 20 years; and are now looking into a fund of over $2 Billion.

In addition to bringing their networks and expertise into XLR8, the team created an end-to-end supply chain and logistics management company that can finance the customer's needs from manufacturing through end delivery. The company provides services related to shipping (ocean and air), both domestic & international, financing and funding options through its supply chain solutions.

For more info, please call, 877.712.6888, email info@xlr8companies.us or visit our website https://www.xlr8companies.us/

On April 18, 2022, Xelerate Logistics LLC ("XLR8") announced the appointment of Mitchner Ferdinands as the Chief Operating Officer. Mitchner Ferdinands, who has 20 years of experience in the Supply Chain industry, has extensively travelled in many countries to troubleshoot and find innovative and pragmatic solutions to ever evolving supply chain industry.

Related link: https://www.xlr8companies.us/index.html

Jeremy Berlin Named Editorial Director at Hidden Compass

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Hidden Compass, a women-founded media company uniting audiences with the humans, causes, and possibilities behind award-winning stories of exploration, has added another seasoned editor to its staff. The California-based startup recently announced Jeremy Berlin as its editorial director.

As a former writer and editor for publications such as National Geographic magazine, The Atlantic, and Atlas Obscura, Berlin brings more than 20 years of journalism experience to Hidden Compass. He has reported on topics from Atlantic walruses to Sicilian mummies to Chinese mathematics. His hire demonstrates the company's continued commitment to the editorial excellence that has catapulted its award-winning digital magazine onto the national stage. In 2021, Newsweek named Hidden Compass a finalist in its Future of Travel Awards.

"I'm honored and excited to join this crack squad," says Berlin. "Roughly half the stories we run win awards or are anthologized, so I'm clearly inheriting a small-but-mighty title. My aim is to both uphold that excellence and help Hidden Compass take it to the next level - to grow the brand editorially, publish diverse new voices, and tell new stories that delight and inform our dedicated, discerning readership."

"The old publishing model, beset by shrinking budgets and attention spans, is dying," says Berlin. "But Hidden Compass's approach, which privileges immersive exploration and intellectual curiosity over clickbait and algorithms, is what can allow it to thrive and flourish."

Hidden Compass continues to pave the way for the future of exploration journalism. The startup now boasts a podcast, virtual events, and The Alliance - a modern exploration society.

"We built The Alliance to address the existential FOMO of our Allies and give them access to something bigger than themselves: a like-minded community, a vote and a say in the expeditions we fund, opportunities to meet explorers, and an invitation to explore the frontiers of human knowledge," says co-founder Sivani Babu.

The co-founders are thrilled about the growth of both The Alliance and their flagship publication. "With an experienced, award-winning journalist and editor like Jeremy at the editorial helm, we're confident that Hidden Compass will lead a new generation of publications that are profitable - not in spite of championing journalism and hope, but because of it," says co-founder Sabine K. Bergmann.

More information:
https://www.hiddencompass.net

About Hidden Compass:

Hidden Compass is an independent journalism outlet and modern exploration society transforming the way audiences participate in journalism and exploration. Co-founders Sivani Babu and Sabine K. Bergmann, who have 25 years of experience in journalism and publishing, launched Hidden Compass in 2017 as an alternative to unhealthy, clickbait-laden content - what they call "junk food media." In 2020, the company pioneered a unique business model, leveraging fundraising campaigns to increase journalists' pay and audience participation. The following year, readership grew by more than 40 percent, and Newsweek named Hidden Compass a finalist in its Future of Travel Awards. Learn more at https://hiddencompass.net/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/p6unjdazv-w

Hidden Compass, a women-founded media company uniting audiences with the humans, causes, and possibilities behind award-winning stories of exploration, has added another seasoned editor to its staff. The California-based startup recently announced Jeremy Berlin as its editorial director.

Related link: https://hiddencompass.net

Edgewood Healthcare Advisors Continues Growth with Strategic Hires

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Edgewood Healthcare Advisors, a division of EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that it has hired a team of healthcare experts to help continue to expand its healthcare practice expertise in the Southeast Region.

Joining the team are Kirk Kreis and Chad May as principals, as well as Diana Nodarse as account manager. Kreis and May both have a background in insurance and consulting in professional liability, alternative risk transfer, workers' compensation, and captives in the healthcare industry. The team will be responsible for the development, cultivation, and management of new and existing business.

"We are pleased to welcome Kirk, Chad and Diana to our practice. They will provide guidance to our clients, as well as help to expand our overall client base. We look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead with this new team on board," said Matthew LeBlanc, Healthcare Practice Leader, East Region.

With the continued changes in the healthcare industry, it is more important than ever to have experts like Kirk and Chad as part of the Edgewood Healthcare Advisors team to provide guidance to clients to help them navigate the everchanging world of healthcare," continued LeBlanc.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail insurance brokerage, has more than 2,600 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to clients. EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. https://www.epicbrokers.com

About Edgewood Healthcare Advisors

Edgewood Healthcare Advisors, a division of EPIC, has partnered with organizations in the Healthcare industry for decades. The team is comprised of experienced brokers, actuaries, and claim advocates that provide key risk management and risk finance services to healthcare clients. https://epicbrokers.com/industries/healthcare/

Edgewood Healthcare Advisors, a division of EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that it has hired a team of healthcare experts to help continue to expand its healthcare practice expertise in the Southeast Region.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

James Kennedy Joins Vanbridge, a Division of Financial Services of EPIC: M&A and Private Equity Background Provides Significant Leg Up

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that James Kennedy has joined the firm as a principal with Vanbridge, its Financial Services division.

In his role within the Financial Services division, Kennedy will be dedicated to the private equity space. He brings a strong background in private equity and mergers and acquisitions work including due diligence, transactional services, advisory, and placement. His experience and network will be invaluable to the organization as he becomes a part of the team and begins to collaborate with national teams within EPIC as well as partner firms. Kennedy will be based in Birmingham, Alabama and New York, New York but will work with all of EPIC's national teams in the financial services space.

"I could not be more thrilled to have James joining our Financial Services team. I look forward to leveraging his expertise and his network as we continue to build upon our capabilities in the financial services and private equity space," said Philip Moyles, President, Financial Services and Chief Growth Officer.

Adam Meyerowitz, President, Southeast/Midwest Region, agreed, "We couldn't be more excited to have James join our team and further expand our capabilities in the region. There are many opportunities ahead for success with him onboard."

About Vanbridge - An EPIC Company:

Vanbridge is an insurance intermediary and program management business that provides products and services at the intersection of the insurance, private equity, and hedge fund industries. Vanbridge focuses on alternative asset management, corporate and individual high net worth clients, solving risk related issues utilizing insurance and alternative capital. Vanbridge's unique structuring and plan design techniques support various client objectives including cost reductions and enhancements to investment strategies that strengthen long-term financial performance. https://www.vanbridge.com

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants:

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail insurance brokerage, has more than 2,600 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to clients. EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that James Kennedy has joined the firm as a principal with Vanbridge, its Financial Services In his role within the Financial Services division, Kennedy will be dedicated to the private equity space.division.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Welcomes Jim McSherry – Joins as National Practice Leader for New Employer Stop Loss Center

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Jim McSherry has joined EPIC to lead its newly formed Employer Stop Loss Center of Excellence.

McSherry has spent more than two decades in the employee benefits space working with brokers and consultants, developing and implementing innovative strategies to assist self-funded clients in managing their employee benefit plans. With extensive experience drawn from both major medical and national stop-loss carriers, he brings a wealth of technical and market knowledge to the EPIC organization. McSherry's expertise in self-funding, employer stop-loss and risk mitigation will prove to be an invaluable asset to the EPIC team and its clients.

Prior to joining EPIC, McSherry was with Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance where he was instrumental in facilitating the launch of medical stop-loss in the Northeast. As a regional sales director, his responsibilities included strategic planning, new business development, renewal retention and management of partnerships with some of the largest brokerage and consulting firms in the industry. McSherry started his career with Anthem BlueCross BlueShield in New York where he worked for more than 10 years with both fully insured and self-funded clients in the commercial large group market.

"I have worked with Jim for over 20 years and have known him to be a highly resourceful industry leader with exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. He will be a great resource for our organization and a great fit for EPIC culturally. I am excited we have the opportunity to bring him on board," commented Craig Hasday, President, National Employee Benefits Practice.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants:

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail insurance brokerage, has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to clients. EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S.

Learn more: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Jim McSherry has joined EPIC to lead its newly formed Employer Stop Loss Center of Excellence.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

BioAustinCTX Announces Board of Director Leadership Changes

AUSTIN, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Life Science industry organization, BioAustinCTX, announced today changes to its Board of Directors with the departure of Elisa Maldonado-Holmertz and the appointment of Tami Annable. Over the past several years, Austin and the Central Texas region have developed into one of the fastest-growing life science hubs in the U.S.

With more than 240 companies and a variety of community ecosystem organizations involved in building the life science sector, Central Texas emerged as a life science innovation wellspring attracting investment for early-stage startups and relocations for established companies. BioAustinCTX serves as the premier membership organization facilitating the growth of the life science industry in Central Texas by fostering communication, collaboration and engagement across all key stakeholders.

Elisa Maldonado-Holmertz, served on the Board of Directors for BioAustinCTX since 2017. Elisa's leadership and countless hours of support helped to guide the strategic direction and tactical execution of the organization throughout her entire tenure. Elisa played a principal role in producing the monthly BioAustinCTX/TMDA newsletter and coordinating BioAustinCTX's BioBash, the most successful life science industry networking event in Central Texas for more than a decade.

Scott Collins, President of BioAustinCTX stated, "Elisa's dedication and contributions to the evolution of BioAustinCTX are greatly appreciated and we wish her great success on her future endeavors."

Tami Annable joins the BioAustinCTX Board of Directors effective 01 April 2022. Tami is a well-known member of the life science industry in Central Texas having previously served as the Executive Director of the Temple Health and Bioscience Economic Development District Incubator for the past six years. Tami brings a wealth of professional experience in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry as well as operational experience working with life science startup companies.

BioAustinCTX is undertaking an expanding range of initiatives and programs supporting continued growth of the life science industry with the goal of establishing the region as a global life sciences economic hub. This evolving strategy will encompass new programs to build collaboration, communication, and growth across companies, community partners, and academic institutions focused on the life science sector.

About BioAustinCTX:

BioAustinCTX is a nonprofit organization based in Austin, Texas focused on advancing the life science industry in the Central Texas Region. Visit BioAustinCTX for more information https://bioaustinctx.com, email: operations@bioaustinctx.com

Life Science industry organization, BioAustinCTX, announced today changes to its Board of Directors with the departure of Elisa Maldonado-Holmertz and the appointment of Tami Annable. Over the past several years, Austin and the Central Texas region have developed into one of the fastest-growing life science hubs in the U.S.

Related link: https://bioaustinctx.com/

Ben Itkin Assumes Sales Leadership Position at MCT

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), a recognized industry leader in mortgage risk management providing pipeline hedging, best execution loan sales and centralized lock desk services, announced today that Ben Itkin has been appointed the new National Sales Director. Mr. Itkin will leverage his hands-on experience from his previous senior role as Managing Director to now lead a larger overall investment in the MCT sales team.

Mr. Itkin assumes an important leadership position that ensures MCT will continue to grow its "in the field" presence and continue to provide industry-leading client experience to over 300 lenders. The appointment is part and parcel of bigger investment in the sales team, which has more than doubled from six Sales Directors, to a team of 13 with the addition of four Capital Markets Technology Advisors and three Regional Account Executives.

"With Tom Farmer's promotion to Chief Investment in Corporate Development Officer overseeing third party collaborations, Ben will assume the leadership of our sales team," said Curtis Richins, President and CEO of MCT. "Ben in this role is exciting because he is widely known and widely respected throughout the industry. He is charismatic, insightful, solutions focused, and people enjoy doing business with him."

The expanded sales team Mr. Itkin now leads is part of MCT's ongoing commitment to client engagement and delivering the best client experience. His objectives are to grow MCT's core business and accelerate adoption of non-hedge products and services. He is also tasked with growing newer offerings including MSRlive!, participation in BAM Marketplace, investor services, and MCTlive!, MCT's award-winning best execution and loan pipeline management software.

"Even though we are coming into a much softer market than we have seen the last three years, success is still the expectation and I look forward to continuing that upward trajectory," said Itkin. "We have a talented, young sales team and I am excited about helping mentor and assist each of them to develop and flourish, ultimately maximizing their potential."

Mr. Itkin brings nearly 30 years of experience in the mortgage industry and 13 years of experience at MCT as a resource in helping sales and organizational initiatives to his new role. He is highly regarded in the mortgage industry, and holds deep knowledge in secondary marketing, loan pricing, and pipeline hedging. He has been instrumental in expanding and working closely with MCT's team of trading analysts to provide hands-on service to clients as well as being instrumental as a sales resource including scratch and dent bidding efforts. Mr. Itkin holds an MBA from California State University, Northridge and is an active member of the Mortgage Bankers Association.

About MCT:

Founded in 2001, Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT) has grown from a boutique mortgage pipeline hedging firm into the industry's leading provider of fully-integrated capital markets services and technology. MCT offers an array of best-in-class services and software covering mortgage pipeline hedging, best execution loan sales, outsourced lock desk solutions, MSR portfolio valuations, business intelligence analytics, mark to market services, and an award-winning comprehensive capital markets software platform called MCTlive! MCT supports independent mortgage bankers, depositories, credit unions, warehouse lenders, and correspondent investors of all sizes.

Headquartered in San Diego, California, MCT also has offices in Philadelphia, Santa Rosa, Los Angeles and Dallas. MCT is well known for its team of capital markets experts and senior traders who continue to provide the boutique-style hands-on engagement clients love.

For more information, visit https://mct-trading.com/ or call (619) 543-5111.

RELATED LINKS:
https://mct-trading.com/about/team/ben-itkin/
https://mct-trading.com/solutions/msr-valuation/
https://mct-trading.com/bam-marketplace-loan-exchange/
https://mct-trading.com/solutions/mortgage-hedging/mctlive/

Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), a recognized industry leader in mortgage risk management providing pipeline hedging, best execution loan sales and centralized lock desk services, announced today that Ben Itkin has been appointed the new National Sales Director.

Related link: https://mct-trading.com/

FormFree grows executive team, appoints Eric Lapin chief strategy officer

ATHENS, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- FormFree® today announced that it has appointed Eric Lapin to the role of chief strategy officer (CSO). In this position, Lapin will leverage his more than 25 years' experience in leadership roles at marquee mortgage technology firms and financial institutions to steer the strategic vision and partnerships driving FormFree's growth.

Prior to joining FormFree, Lapin served as first vice president of corporate development, national agency services, at Old Republic Title, where he spearheaded the structuring of new solutions, corporate alliance building, and lender and agency business development. Before that, he held vice president and managing director positions at banner housing fintechs and financial institutions including Altisource, Black Knight, First American and Credit Suisse.

As CSO, Lapin will strategically identify and execute growth opportunities at FormFree. His responsibilities will include monitoring the execution of business initiatives, identifying key capital projects, driving strategic partnership opportunities and overseeing communications and marketing.

"My long-standing passion for helping lenders leverage technology to create a better mortgage experience has made this next step in my career an easy one," said Lapin. "In my new role as CSO, I look forward to supporting FormFree's vision of transforming the mortgage industry with innovative solutions designed to improve lender operations and expand consumer access to sustainable credit."

"Eric brings a wealth of experience and strategic know-how to the FormFree team, which he has acquired through decades of experience gaining mastery knowledge of mortgage lending and the technology ecosystem that powers it," said FormFree Founder and CEO Brent Chandler. "As FormFree continues to grow, Eric will play a central role in how our suite of revolutionary digital products is able to impact the housing finance industry and beyond."

Lapin is the second addition to FormFree's executive team in the last month, following FormFree's appointment of Patrick Rutherford, former finance executive at Intercontinental Exchange, as chief financial officer (CFO).

About FormFree®

As the industry's go-to provider for direct-source VOA and VOI/E data, FormFree helps lenders understand credit risk like never before. Our patented AccountChek® and Passport® products open doors to more inclusive credit decisioning by revealing each customer's true ability to pay (ATP®). We have completed over $3 trillion in loan verifications that help lenders lower operating costs while improving the borrower experience.

For more information, visit https://www.formfree.com/

Follow FormFree on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/formfree/

FormFree® today announced that it has appointed Eric Lapin to the role of chief strategy officer (CSO). In this position, Lapin will leverage his more than 25 years' experience in leadership roles at marquee mortgage technology firms and financial institutions to steer the strategic vision and partnerships driving FormFree's growth.

Related link: https://www.formfree.com/

Mid America Mortgage adds Kyle Hilton as Quality Control Manager

ADDISON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Mid America Mortgage, Inc. (Mid America) welcomes mortgage industry veteran, Kyle Hilton as its newest quality control manager. Hilton brings a knowledge spanning more than 20 years in mortgage underwriting and quality assurance review. In this role, Hilton will be responsible for overseeing and monitoring quality control vendors and policies which includes conducting audits and managing deficiencies in underwriting work, file documentation and compliance both pre-funding and post-closing. In addition, Hilton will supervise early payment default reviews while also working to enhance workflows and remediate errors identified in quality control audits.

"Compliance and loan quality are the bedrock of Mid America's longevity and success, and as such, we view our investments in these areas as key revenue protections rather than cost centers," said Mid America Owner and CEO Jeff Bode. "Kyle's extensive background in mortgage underwriting and quality control makes him an ideal candidate to help us keep loan quality at the forefront of our operations, particularly as we move into a purchase-driven market."

Most recently, Hilton served as quality control manager at NTFN, Inc., for six years, where his duties included ensuring quality and efficiency standards set by the company met acceptable standards. Prior to NTFN, Hilton was a credit risk underwriter at Pacific Union Financial, LLC, where he was responsible for evaluating risk, program guideline accuracy and collateral reviews. In addition to calculating appropriate loan decisions based on established underwriting guidelines, information and documentation. He has also held positions in underwriting and credit risk assessment for Wells Fargo, Fannie Mae and Citi Mortgage.

"Having previously worked with Mid America's Chief Risk Officer Gary McKiddy, I heard nothing but positive things about Mid America and its management team, because my values seem to align with the company's culture, I felt I would be able to apply my experience to make a positive impact," said Hilton. "My goal is to constantly move the needle in terms of loan quality and defect elimination, and to that end, I will also introduce new technology into Mid America's quality control process to increase efficiency while reducing costs."

About Mid America Mortgage, Inc.

Mid America Mortgage, Inc., Addison, Texas, is a multi-state, full-service mortgage lender serving consumers and mortgage originators through its retail, wholesale, and correspondent channels. We offer a wide range of residential home loan programs to meet the needs of most home buyers and homeowners and are also the nation's leading provider of Section 184 home loans for Native Americans. Learn more at https://www.midamericamortgage.com/.

In operation since 1940, Mid America has thrived by retaining its entrepreneurial spirit and leading the market in innovation, including its adoption of eClosings eNotes. Click n' Close is Mid America's ultra-secure, digital mortgage approval and closing process that gets home buyers from application to closing within two weeks. With just a few clicks at closing, Click n' Close puts keys in the home buyer's hand in 15 minutes or less. Apply online at https://www.midamericamortgage.com/click-n-close/#cnc.

Frequently named a top mortgage employer/workplace by industry trade magazines such as Mortgage Professional America, MReport, National Mortgage News and National Mortgage Professional, Mid America is looking for tech-savvy, service-oriented mortgage professionals to join our growing team. We are dedicated to providing our employees with industry-leading tools and technology to deliver a great package of competitive pricing, programs and knowledgeable service. Want to join our team? Visit https://www.midamericamortgage.com/careers/.

Mid America Mortgage, Inc. (Mid America) welcomes mortgage industry veteran, Kyle Hilton as its newest quality control manager. Hilton brings a knowledge spanning more than 20 years in mortgage underwriting and quality assurance review. In this role, Hilton will be responsible for overseeing and monitoring quality control vendors and policies.

Related link: https://www.midamericamortgage.com/

Mary Costello joins FormFree team as director of vendor management, risk and compliance

ATHENS, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- FormFree® today announced that it has welcomed 17-year finance industry veteran Mary Costello to its team as director of vendor management, risk and compliance. In this role, Costello will support FormFree's audit, risk and compliance efforts across the management of internal and external vendor, lender and integration partnerships.

Prior to joining FormFree, Costello served 14 years at Veterans United Home Loans, where she developed, launched and led the enterprise-wide vendor management program for the largest U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) purchase lender. Costello also served as Veterans United Home Loans' go-to vendor compliance manager - diligently mitigating third-party risk through careful contract analyses, strong pricing negotiations and frequent due diligence collaborations.

"We are incredibly lucky to bring Mary and her wealth of vendor management expertise to the FormFree fold," said FormFree Founder and CEO Brent Chandler. "Mary has a deep background in managing risk across a complex portfolio of critical vendor relationships. I'm confident that she will be an incredible asset as FormFree continues to grow its vendor network."

As Director of Vendor Management, Risk and Compliance at FormFree, Costello will manage FormFree's internal and external vendor relationships with support from compliance leadership, internal stakeholders and external auditors. She will collaborate across FormFree's network to mitigate vendor risk by ensuring compliance with regulatory and ethical requirements.

"I was drawn to FormFree because I identify with the company's mission of driving disruptive change in the mortgage industry," said Costello. "I look forward to nurturing FormFree's numerous vendor relationships, promoting its groundbreaking mortgage products and thinking outside the box to leverage these relationships and products to facilitate a world-class lending experience."

About FormFree®

As the industry's go-to provider for direct-source VOA and VOI/E data, FormFree helps lenders understand credit risk like never before. Our patented AccountChek® and Passport® products open doors to more inclusive credit decisioning by revealing each customer's true ability to pay (ATP®). We have completed over $3 trillion in loan verifications that help lenders lower operating costs while improving the borrower experience.

For more information, visit https://www.formfree.com/

Follow FormFree on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/formfree/

FormFree today announced that it has welcomed 17-year finance industry veteran Mary Costello to its team as director of vendor management, risk and compliance. In this role, Costello will support FormFree's audit, risk and compliance efforts across the management of internal and external vendor, lender and integration partnerships.

Related link: https://www.formfree.com/

Parallel Napa Valley Promotes Adrienne D.A. Smith to General Manager / Partner

NAPA VALLEY, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The partners of Parallel Napa Valley are pleased to announce the promotion of their General Manager Adrienne D.A. Smith to General Manager and Partner. After four years with the company, Adrienne has overseen strong growth for the brand in her role overseeing marketing, hospitality, sales and operations with an innovative and high energy approach. She was appointed by the partners to oversee their next stage of growth in 2018 and quickly moved from Director of Hospitality and Marketing to the General Manager role six months into her tenure.

With an MBA in Finance as well as an Associate's Degree in Culinary Arts from the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, Smith has brought to Parallel Napa Valley a sound business mind and a savvy knack for wine hospitality. During her tenure, Direct-to-Consumer Sales has grown by nearly 200% while membership in their Black Diamond Wine Clubs has increased by nearly four-fold.

Parallel Napa Valley utilizes the stylish, appointment-only tasting rooms and wine-making facility at Brasswood Napa Valley, just a few miles north of St. Helena in the beautiful Napa Valley. Smith works closely with internationally renowned Winemaker Philippe Melka (who has been with Parallel Napa Valley since its inception in 1999) and his Atelier Melka Team in order to best translate and promote his inimitable style to Parallel Wines devotees.

Smith also takes Parallel Wines on the road fairly often, meeting with wine club members, working closely with chefs on pairing menus with the wines and attending high touch marketing events that showcase the wines.

Upcoming events and important dates include:

* High Museum Atlanta Auction, March 24-26, Atlanta, GA: Parallel Napa Valley is pleased to participate once again alongside their Atelier Melka colleagues in this event which raises critical funds to provide educational programs and various outreach efforts to local youth and to consistently deliver world-class art exhibitions that make Atlanta proud. https://www.highmuseumwine.org/

* 33rd Annual California Winemasters, May 13, Burbank, CA: This extraordinary event showcases 57 international chefs and 75 of California's finest wineries. "Winemasters" has raised more than $34 million in support of the mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. https://www.cawinemasters.org/new-events/33rd-annual-california-winemasters

* Parallel Napa Valley Bud Break Party, May 21, St. Helena, CA: Celebrating the spring release of their limited production 2020 Napa Valley Chardonnay. In addition, the winners of the 2018 Name the Vintage Contest will be presented with an etched 3L of the 2018 Black Diamond Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon "Captivator" - a black diamond ski run at Mt. Rose Ski Resort, Tahoe, CA. Additional vintages of Parallel Wines will be poured along with amazing dishes from the Brasswood Kitchen, plus music and fun on the outdoor courtyard lawn! Tickets are $150 and can be purchased here: https://www.parallelwines.com/product/Parallel-Wines-2022-Bud-Break-Party.

Of Smith's promotion, Park City, Utah based partner Mac MacQuoid stated, "Adrienne has consistently overdelivered in her role as GM of our winery, adapting creatively and ahead of the curve during a challenging yet exciting time for wine sales. Her programming ideas, sales drive, deep knowledge of food and beverage and strong hospitality gene are just the right alchemy to take our brand forward. She deserves this recognition, and as a close group of partners, we are thrilled to see her succeed."

Smith says, "I am beyond excited to take on an even deeper role with Parallel Napa Valley and its founding partners. We have collectively put in a lot of work together over the past four years (and had a lot of fun!), and it's rewarding and extremely humbling that they feel so confident in my abilities to carry the brand forward as a next generation vintner. I am proud to serve in this role and continue their 23+ year legacy in Napa Valley with the Atelier Melka Team."

About Parallel Napa Valley

Parallel Napa Valley is an artisan winery producing less than 700 cases annually of top-quality Napa Valley designated Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay wines, created by Philippe Melka (and his Atelier Melka Team), well regarded by leading critics as one of the pre-eminent wine consultants in the U.S. and beyond. The winery was established originally as a partnership in 1999 by close friends who felt the concept of their dream represented their parallel lives in Deer Valley (in Park City, Utah) where they have spent more than 40+ years, and Napa Valley, their second home.

The Parallel Napa Valley label captures the essence of the lines carved by skis on the first run of the day, and the reserve wines are named for famous ski runs. In addition to making a great wine, the partners of Parallel Napa Valley are dedicated philanthropists and have made it a priority to extend their wine and its success to support their communities and various charities in Utah, California and across the country.

Learn more: https://www.parallelwines.com/

The partners of Parallel Napa Valley are pleased to announce the promotion of their General Manager Adrienne D.A. Smith to General Manager and Partner. After four years with the company, Adrienne has overseen strong growth for the brand in her role overseeing marketing, hospitality, sales and operations with an innovative and high energy approach.

Related link: https://www.parallelwines.com/

New Tampa Bay Podiatrist Offers Early Morning and Evening Availability

WESTCHASE, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Early birds and night owls rejoice: a new Tampa Bay podiatrist is setting the bar on convenience with extended clinic hours. Sagar Shah, DPM, recently helped launch the opening of a new location for Modern Foot & Ankle at 10954 Sheldon Rd. in Westchase. This marked the Central Florida group's seventh clinic opening in five years.

"Modern Foot & Ankle has an excellent reputation for providing premier care to their patients while utilizing advances in medicine and research," said Dr. Shah. "I knew I wanted to be with a group that uses a patient-centric approach."

Part of that approach incorporates increased availability. The Westchase clinic features appointment times as early as 7:30 a.m. and as late as 7 p.m. on certain days.

"Having additional hours helps patients and families receive care without needing to take time off of work or have kids leave school early," explained Dr. Shah.

Both an accomplished board-certified surgeon and a proponent of holistic medicine, Dr. Shah bases his care on continuing education and patient comfort. He says that an essential component of his treatment plan is talking with patients and listening to their needs.

"This allows me to develop a conservative or surgical plan that is best-suited for the patient," he added.

Dr. Shah's experience also includes outreach programs. He has provided his surgical skills to The Yucatán Crippled Children's Project in Mexico, through which he corrected podiatric deformities for children in need.

"Seeing the hope in patients' faces and knowing that I can make a difference in their health-it's a challenge that I welcome and a gratifying experience," he said.

Now, Dr. Shah says his research-based, patient-first approach is a good fit for the Westchase community.

"This area in particular creates an exciting opportunity as a practitioner," he said. "Seeing the abundance of activities available makes me want to provide the best care possible to keep patients moving and active."

After several years in private practice in Virginia, Dr. Shah reflected, relocating to Florida was bittersweet. But, he added, the move to Westchase was a long-awaited homecoming.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Virginia and the patient relationships I was able to build," he said. "But I was raised in the Tampa Bay area, and moving closer to my family and friends was appealing to me."

Learn more: https://modernfootankle.com/podiatrists/dr-sagar-shah/

About Modern Foot & Ankle®

Through Big-City Technology. Small-Town Care.® Modern Foot & Ankle is reshaping the patient experience and curating a progressive model for podiatric healthcare. Our physicians provide comprehensive medical and surgical solutions for foot and ankle conditions in clinics across Central Florida. With 24/7 online booking and check-in, extended office hours, advanced on-site equipment, and cutting-edge treatment options, Modern Foot & Ankle serves patients efficiently, comfortably, and on their schedule.

For more information, visit https://modernfootankle.com/.

Early birds and night owls rejoice: a new Tampa Bay podiatrist is setting the bar on convenience with extended clinic hours. Sagar Shah, DPM, recently helped launch the opening of a new location for Modern Foot & Ankle at 10954 Sheldon Rd. in Westchase. This marked the Central Florida group's seventh clinic opening in five years.

Related link: https://modernfootankle.com/

The Flowery Hires Executive Team That Oversaw One Plant’s Exit

MIAMI, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Flowery, a Florida-based medical marijuana company and cannabis producer, announced today four new additions to its executive leadership team: Mike Smuts as Chief Operating Officer (COO), Brian Roberts as Director of Cultivation, Harry Rosenfeld as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Kevin Szymanski as Director of Supply Chain and Logistics.

These four executives were formerly part of the key group that oversaw One Plant's operations and ultimate sale to Cresco Labs for 213MM in 2021. This power move by The Flowery further reinforces the company's vision and commitment to become the standard for quality products and the State's sweetheart brand.

"Mike, Brian, Harry, and Kevin are accomplished and passionate industry veterans with exceptional track records of success that will accelerate the company's growth as a quality and culture leader in the Florida market. We couldn't be happier to have them on board. We have some very big plans brewing and we are building the absolute 'A' team to execute it," said The Flowery's CEO, Elad Kohen.

"I couldn't be more stoked (or grateful) to join a team whose driving force is rooted in high grade ganja and authentic cannabis culture as The Flowery," said Mike Smuts, COO. "The market has yet to see a company that truly delivers top shelf product as well as a cohesive and authentic experience in both their digital and brick and mortar client experience. Our commitment to quality over everything, genetics with real provenance, and our exclusive partnerships with the country's top brands will make the flowery the premier cannabis destination in the sunshine state."

With over 12 years of experience in cannabis vertical operations in single and multistate markets, Mike Smuts has learned a great deal. Among his accomplishments was establishing Denver's first downtown retail locations and establishing some of Florida's first MMTCs, which are now some of the top cannabis companies in the state. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services also appointed Mike to its Medical Marijuana Committee in 2019.

Roberts, another veteran in the cannabis industry, started his journey in 2004, learning everything he could about cultivation from several mentors and popular forums at the time. Along the way, Brian developed a deep passion, experience and the required technical attention to detail required to grow world class cultivars. In 2018, Brian made the move and joined the Florida medical program.

Rosenfeld brings 36 years of forensic accounting experience to the team. He has worked for both public and private companies. He played a key role in taking Burger King and Bluma Wellness public. Szymanski brings 30+ plus years of experience, having previously worked at companies including UPS, FedEx, Coca-Cola, among others. He was also part of the team that built One Plant Florida, now Cresco Labs. Having his expertise on board will help push The Flowery's processing to a world-class level. It will also allow the company to expand its delivery operation.

About The Flowery

The Flowery is a privately-owned Medical Cannabis Company, focused on cultivating only indoor, premium quality, small-batch cannabis and exotic cultivars. The Flowery aims to set a new standard for quality products, partnered with a collection of world-renowned cult brands and a customer experience rooted in the culture and lifestyle of cannabis and Florida.

Learn more: https://theflowery.co/

License: #MMTC-2019-0020

DISCLAIMER: The content contained in this press release is intended for media located in the service area of THE FLOWERY where the company is legally licensed to sell medical-focused products to authorized individuals.

The Flowery, a Florida-based medical marijuana company and cannabis producer, announced today four new additions to its executive leadership team: Mike Smuts as Chief Operating Officer (COO), Brian Roberts as Director of Cultivation, Harry Rosenfeld as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Kevin Szymanski as Director of Supply Chain and Logistics.

Related link: https://theflowery.co/

FormFree names former ICE finance executive Patrick Rutherford as CFO to fuel its next stage in company growth

ATHENS, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- FormFree® today announced that it has appointed Patrick Rutherford, former finance executive at Intercontinental Exchange (NYSE: ICE), as chief financial officer (CFO). In his new role at FormFree, Rutherford will lead the organization's finance, accounting and compliance functions.

Prior to joining FormFree, Rutherford served as a leader within ICE's global finance function. As a financial leader at the publicly traded Fortune 500 company, Rutherford oversaw multiple aspects of global forecasting, planning and analysis. He was also a key participant in ICE's mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities, including its strategic equity raise for the company's initial venture into digital assets and its more recent entry into the mortgage space.

Rutherford served as a finance leader at The Home Depot (NYSE: HD) before joining ICE. During this time, he gained a broad set of finance and strategy experiences while progressing professionally, earning formal recognition by the CEO and CFO for his achievements on multiple occasions.

Rutherford earned his bachelor's degree in finance from the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia, and his master's degree in business administration from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh.

"I am thrilled to join FormFree, a company dedicated to revolutionizing how lenders come to understand people's ability to pay," said Rutherford. "As CFO, I will strive to further FormFree's drive of facilitating a more inclusive credit landscape while supporting lenders' business goals."

FormFree welcomes Rutherford to its executive team following years of financial growth. Notably, by helping mortgage lenders understand people's ability to pay (ATP®) with innovative, direct-source data retrieval methods, FormFree saw triple-digit revenue growth between 2017 and 2020, earning it a place on the 2021 Deloitte Technology Fast 500(tm) rankings.

"Patrick's breadth of innovative financial management experience at Fortune 500 companies like ICE and Home Depot made him the perfect choice for helping FormFree reach new heights," said FormFree Founder and CEO Brent Chandler. "We look forward to having Patrick at the helm of FormFree's financial growth."

About FormFree®

FormFree® is a market-leading fintech company whose revolutionary products AccountChek® and Passport® make for a more inclusive credit decisioning landscape by enabling lenders to understand people's true ability to pay (ATP®). To date, thousands of U.S. lenders and brokers have ordered millions of FormFree's patented verification reports representing trillions of dollars in loan verifications. FormFree delights borrowers and lenders with a paperless experience, dramatically reduces origination timelines and offers automated analysis and standardized delivery to lenders and investors using a secure ReissueKey®.

For more information, visit: https://www.formfree.com/.

Follow FormFree on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/formfree/.

FormFree today announced that it has appointed Patrick Rutherford, former finance executive at Intercontinental Exchange (NYSE: ICE), as chief financial officer (CFO). In his new role at FormFree, Rutherford will lead the organization's finance, accounting and compliance functions.

Related link: https://www.formfree.com/

EPIC Private Client Practice Poised for Success with the Appointment of Steve Nelson as Chief Growth Officer

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants ("EPIC"), an independent insurance brokerage and consulting firm, announced today that they have appointed Steve Nelson as Chief Growth Officer of their Private Client Practice.

In this newly created role, Nelson is being elevated to continue to drive growth within the Private Client Practice of EPIC. He will provide broad direction in the high-net-worth private client space regarding national strategy, new sales development, and talent acquisition.

Nelson's background and his private client intellectual capital make him the perfect fit for this position. He brings over 30 years of personal risk management and experience advising some of the wealthiest families in the world.

"We are pleased to elevate a highly regarded private client professional like Steve Nelson into national leadership. This is another example of EPIC's commitment to build a dedicated platform for high-net-worth clients and their advisors," commented Tim Brenneman, President of EPIC Private Client Practice.

EPIC CEO Steve Denton, agreed, "We couldn't be more excited to have Steve step into this role and help take our Private Client practice to a new level."

"I am thrilled to continue the journey with the EPIC Private Client team. We have fantastic prospective client opportunities that are only going to grow exponentially. We will continue to bring aboard the brightest and best talent to meet the challenges of our meteoric growth mindset," said Steve Nelson.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail insurance brokerage, has more than 2,600 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to clients. EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S.

Learn more at: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants (EPIC), an independent insurance brokerage and consulting firm, announced today that they have appointed Steve Nelson as Chief Growth Officer of their Private Client Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

KROST CPAs & Consultants Announces Greg Kniss as Chairman of the Board, Jason Melillo as CEO and Keith Hamasaki as Principal of Assurance and Advisory

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Los Angeles-based CPA Firm, KROST CPAs and Consultants announced that Greg Kniss has been appointed to Chairman of the Board, Jason Melillo promoted as the new CEO, and Keith Hamasaki to Principal of Assurance & Advisory services.

Greg Kniss has been actively involved with the firm's business consulting and tax practice for nearly 40 years and has grown the firm from just a few members to now over 270 members. Through his leadership and guidance, the firm has been awarded Best of the Best and Top 100 firm for the last five consecutive years. KROST is proud to appoint Greg from Managing Principal to Chairman of the Board.

"We are grateful for Greg's leadership, and I hope to follow his footsteps to continue to grow firm with the same entrepreneurial spirit and progressive culture," said Jason Melillo, CEO of KROST.

Stepping in as the new CEO, Jason Melillo brings a tremendous amount of institutional knowledge with over 25 years at the KROST. As the previous Principal of the Accounting, and Advisory & Assurances Services team, his areas of expertise include foodservice, manufacturing, real estate, retail, as well as technology and professional services industries. Jason is a recognized as an industry speaker and has been a lecturer to large organizations such as the California Society of CPAs, the American Institute of CPAs, and organizations such as the California Restaurant Association.

"I am very excited for Jason to start his journey as the new CEO of KROST. His dedication to the firm gives me no doubt that he will take KROST to next level," said Greg Kniss, Chairman of the Board.

Following suit, Keith Hamasaki has been promoted to Principal of the firm's Assurance and Advisory practice. With over a decade of consulting experience, Keith specializes in audit and business advisory services to emerging and middle market companies. As an active member of the community, Keith has been a recurring Selection Committee Member for the Los Angeles Business Journal's CFO of the Year Awards and is on the Professional Advisory Board for Accounting Curriculum at Pasadena City College and Glendale Community College.

"I'm most proud of Keith's contribution to the profession. He has been instrumental in leading the A&A practice and has taken an active role in our campus recruiting and mentorship program to ensure a diverse and inclusive firm culture," said Jason Melillo, CEO.

About KROST

Established in 1939 in Pasadena, California, KROST, is a full-service Certified Public Accounting and Consulting firm serving clients across various industries. Their focus is recognizing opportunities and creating value for clients by equipping them with the tools to make better business and financial decisions for the future. As trusted advisors, clients depend on KROST to provide timely information, innovative solutions, and result-driven teamwork to ensure success. Along with provide traditional services as Tax, Accounting, Assurance & Advisory, KROST provides special services including Client Accounting, Mergers & Acquisitions, Wealth Management, Tax Specialty Services and KROST Business Intelligence/Data Analytics.

Learn more at: https://www.krostcpas.com/.

Los Angeles-based CPA Firm, KROST CPAs and Consultants announced that Greg Kniss has been appointed to Chairman of the Board, Jason Melillo promoted as the new CEO, and Keith Hamasaki to Principal of Assurance & Advisory services.

Related link: https://www.krostcpas.com/

The New York Milk Bank Announces Appointment of New Executive Director, Linda Harelick, MBA, DrPH

VALHALLA, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The New York Milk Bank (NYMB), founded six years ago, today announced the appointment of its new Executive Director, Linda Harelick, MBA, DrPH. Established in 2016, NYMB was founded by Julie Bouchet-Horwitz, NP and four other dedicated women with the purpose of providing life-saving donor human milk for premature and sick infants. Since its inception, through the generosity of milk donors, NYMB has dispensed nearly 1,000,000 ounces of pasteurized donor human milk to hospitals for infants throughout the tri-state area. In addition to hospitals, NYMB has also been able to provide for full-term healthy infants without access to their own mother's breast milk.

"Given our tremendous growth over the past five years and the increasing demand for donor human milk, we are ready to take the organization to the next level and pass the baton to Dr. Linda Harelick. She comes to us with a wealth of experience from both the private and non-profit sectors. Her passion, background, and knowledge will be a tremendous asset to NYMB," stated Bouchet-Horwitz.

Bouchet-Horwitz will remain the President of the NYMB Board of Directors as well as the Tissue Bank Director in order to continue the milk bank's vision and purpose, while returning to her private breastfeeding practice full time.

Harelick's interest in social impact stems from her early work as a registered dietitian seeing first-hand how environmental, cultural, and societal factors influenced one's health. With ambitions to transition to management, she received an MBA from Columbia Business School. This led to a career at Kraft Foods, overseeing strategic planning and marketing for Maxwell House Coffee and Post Cereal, culminating in leading Global Consumer Services. With a desire to return to the work of health promotion, she received a doctorate in public health from New York Medical College and became director of operations and communications at ChildObesity180 at Tufts University. Here she combined her management expertise with public health knowledge to accelerate the transformation of a start-up nonprofit to a leading organization in childhood obesity prevention. Continuing her focus on improving health outcomes of children and families, she moved to Harlem Children's Zone, where she was charged with replicating the successful Healthy Harlem program in multiple communities throughout the country.

"I am beyond excited and honored for the opportunity to lead such an important organization as The New York Milk Bank. My career spans several sectors and by blending my public health knowledge and my business expertise, the already impressive growth that the milk bank has achieved will be accelerated. I look forward to engaging with staff, donors, the board, and volunteers to ensure that infants in need receive safely pasteurized donor human milk and are able to reach their full potential," remarked Linda.

ABOUT THE NEW YORK MILK BANK

The New York Milk Bank (NYMB) is a non-profit organization that collects extra breast milk from healthy lactating women. The milk is then pasteurized and distributed to babies in need throughout the Tri-State area. Since opening in 2016, NYMB has screened over 4500 donors and distributed nearly 1,000,000 ounces of donor milk. NYMB is dedicated to improving the health and survival of infants in need by ensuring the quality and availability of pasteurized donor human milk if mother's own milk is unavailable or insufficient. We are committed to reducing health disparities by advocating for the use and reimbursement of donor milk.

While most mothers of newborns produce enough milk, mothers of premature and sick infants often have difficulty providing adequate amounts of milk. The use of pasteurized donor human milk from mothers who produce more than is needed for their own children is recommended by the World Health Organization, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Surgeon General, and the NYS Commissioner of Health.

Learn more at: https://www.nymilkbank.org/

The New York Milk Bank (NYMB), founded six years ago, today announced the appointment of its new Executive Director, Linda Harelick, MBA, DrPH. The New York Milk Bank (NYMB) is a non-profit organization that collects extra breast milk from healthy lactating women. The milk is then pasteurized and distributed to babies in need throughout the Tri-State area.

Related link: https://www.nymilkbank.org/

Down Payment Resource welcomes Marcy Ash, AMP, as Director of Strategic Projects

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the nationwide database for U.S. homebuyer assistance programs, today announced it has appointed Marcy Ash, AMP, as director of strategic projects. In her role at DPR, Ash will manage relationships with state Housing Finance Agencies (HFAs) and spearhead industry partnerships and strategies that help DPR deliver greater value to its customers.

"My passion is helping low- to moderate-income borrowers realize their dreams of homeownership, so I am thrilled to join DPR as the newest member of its dedicated team of housing industry experts," said Ash. "I look forward to building upon the company's exceptional reputation by connecting even more lenders, real estate agents and borrowers with the award-winning digital tools they need to expand sustainable homeownership accessibility."

Prior to joining the DPR team, Ash was assistant vice president and senior product manager at Huntington Bank, where she was responsible for developing, implementing and managing the company's affordable lending products and programs. As a result of Ash's efforts, Huntington Bank saw a 700% increase in the number of closed loans for low- to moderate-income borrowers through the Ohio Housing Finance Agency.

"Marcy brings over 28 years of valuable mortgage lending and product development experience to our organization," said DPR CEO Rob Chrane. "With her extensive expertise and proven passion for DPR's mission of connecting borrowers with down payment assistance programs, Ash will play a vital role in nurturing our organization's strategic projects and partnerships."

Ash is a state-certified continuing education instructor for Realtors in Ohio, Michigan and Kentucky. She has also been an annual guest speaker and moderator for the Ohio Housing Conference and has served as a member of the Ohio Housing Lender Advisory Board.

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is a nationwide database of down payment assistance and affordable lending programs. The company tracks funding status, eligibility rules, benefits and more for approximately 2,000 programs in 11 categories. Its award winning technology helps the housing industry connect more homebuyers to the down payment help they need. DPR has been recognized by Inman News as "Most Innovative New Technology" and the HousingWire Tech100™. DPR is licensed to Multiple Listing Services, Realtor Associations, lenders and housing counselors across the country. DPR's subscription based service, Down Payment Connect, helps agents and loan officers match buyers to available programs.

For more information, please visit https://downpaymentresource.com/ and on Twitter at @DwnPmtResource.

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the nationwide database for U.S. homebuyer assistance programs, today announced it has appointed Marcy Ash, AMP, as director of strategic projects. In her role at DPR, Ash will manage relationships with state Housing Finance Agencies (HFAs) and spearhead industry partnerships and strategies that help DPR deliver greater value to its customers.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

Jennifer Oliverio Takes Over Local Edward Jones Branch Office

PUEBLO, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- Jennifer Oliverio has been named to take over the local Edward Jones office located at 200 W City Center Dr. STE 202 Pueblo, CO 81003, the firm announced today. Oliverio transferred to Pueblo, CO from an Edward Jones office in Puyallup, Washington.

Edward Jones, a Fortune 500 company headquartered in St. Louis, provides financial services in the U.S. and, through its affiliate, in Canada. Every aspect of the firm's business, from the investments its financial advisors offer to the location of branch offices, caters to individual investors and businesses.

The firm's nearly 19,000 financial advisors serve more than 7 million clients with a total of $1.8 trillion in assets under care.

For more information, visit https://www.edwardjones.com/us-en/ or the recruiting website at https://careers.edwardjones.com/. Member SIPC.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jennifer Oliverio | 719-545-3564

Jennifer Oliverio has been named to take over the local Edward Jones office located at 200 W City Center Dr. STE 202 Pueblo, CO 81003, the firm announced today. Oliverio transferred to Pueblo, CO from an Edward Jones office in Puyallup, Washington.

Related link: https://www.edwardjones.com/

EPIC Adds Joseph Freeman – Will Lead West Region Loss Control Team

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Joseph Freeman has joined the firm as Managing Principal. He will be based in Los Angeles.

In his new position, Freeman will lead the West Region Loss Control team to assist EPIC clients in managing and reducing risks before losses occur. He will work with the team to understand and improve the measurable outcomes of complex safety management systems, act as advocates for clients, and coordinate the services provided by insurer loss control personnel.

Freeman joins EPIC from Beecher Carlson where he served as Director of Risk Control. In this role, he led a national team responsible for assisting clients in risk reduction strategies. His areas of industry expertise include transportation, hospitality, healthcare, retail, energy, and manufacturing. He helped clients identify cost-drivers associated with their casualty risk management programs, and then helped develop and implement processes to minimize those costs.

This included services in a broad range of areas, including cost allocation and performance measurement, risk management programs and procedures, client-specific training modules, risk management program auditing, site safety evaluations, ergonomic assessments, driver safety, and others. Freeman joined the insurance industry in 2002 as a risk control consultant with Liberty Mutual Insurance, where he held a variety of risk control positions.

"We are pleased to welcome Joey to EPIC as we continue to grow the West Region and provide valuable loss prevention resources on behalf of our clients," said EPIC West Region President, KJ Wagner. "Joey's extensive background in loss control brings a wealth of knowledge and rich industry experience to the team."

Freeman earned a Bachelor of Science, Occupational Safety & Health from Murray State University. He holds the professional designations of Certified Safety Professional through the Board of Certified Safety Professionals and Certified Driver Trainer through the North American Transportation Management Institute.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail insurance brokerage, has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to clients. EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Joseph Freeman has joined the firm as Managing Principal. He will be based in Los Angeles.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

ReverseVision Recruits Marketing Maven Scott Shepherd to Elevate Brand and Support Growth

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- ReverseVision®, the leading national provider of Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) and private reverse mortgage sales and origination technology, announced that seasoned marketing executive Scott Shepherd has joined the company to head its marketing efforts. As head of marketing, he oversees ReverseVision's marketing department and is responsible for the design and implementation of its new marketing strategy.

Founded in 2007, Shepherd joins ReverseVision at a turning point in the company's history as the market leader in reverse mortgage automation solutions. ReverseVision has been putting in place the necessary building blocks to support an increasing need for reverse mortgage products among lenders and borrowers.

"I am elated to join the highly passionate, dedicated team at ReverseVision and look forward to taking its marketing and branding to the next level," said Shepherd. "Following a high-volume re-fi boom, the mortgage industry's changing business landscape is ripe to increase the adoption of reverse loan products via multiple delivery methods. ReverseVision is well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities, while helping the mortgage industry expand and evolve with these much-needed loan products."

Shepherd has an extensive marketing background and a proven track record of successful execution in marketing, communications and branding. Over the course of six years, he was central to the development and growth of the eOriginal brand into one of the preeminent digital mortgage lending platforms in the country, ultimately leading to an acquisition by Wolters Kluwer in 2020.

Prior to joining ReverseVision, he headed the marketing strategy at Unleashed Technologies, a web development and digital services firm with commercial and non-profit clients in multiple vertical markets, including financial services. His strategic marketing efforts resulted in the company successfully positioning its solutions in an easy-to-understand, digestible manner for prospects.

Over the course of his career spanning more 25 years, Shepherd developed a broad base of knowledge involving nearly all facets of marketing in multiple industries within different sectors. He has managed marketing communications for several companies ranging from non-profit entities, private, international, government, education and consulting firms. In addition, he has been an editor, journalist and a public relations specialist.

"We welcome Scott to the team at ReverseVision and since joining us, he's already had a positive impact internally and externally," said Bill Mitchell, CRO at ReverseVision. "Scott is an experienced marketing professional who is accustomed to working in fast-paced, dynamic environments operating in growth mode. We are lucky to have him on board at a pivotal juncture as we experience a surge in demand for reverse mortgage technologies."

Scott holds a B.A. in journalism from Buffalo State College and an M.S. in management with a focus in marketing from the University of Maryland.

About ReverseVision:

Since 2007, ReverseVision (RV) has been the leading reverse mortgage technology provider, serving 50 of the top reverse mortgage lenders, 100 percent of reverse investors, and more than 10,000 daily users. RV's award-winning technology offers new APIs (Reverse-as-a-Service) that open the total addressable market, creating new technology synergies that allow forward and reverse mortgages to coexist in the lender's core systems, helping break down adoption barriers so that mortgage bankers can serve their borrowers for life.

ReverseVision's core platform, ReverseVision Exchange (RVX), is comprehensive and proven to automate the entire reverse lending process from origination through secondary marketing. The company's technology is being successfully leveraged as a springboard that helps lenders get into the reverse space easily and efficiently. For more information, visit https://www.reversevision.com/.

ReverseVision®, the leading national provider of Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) and private reverse mortgage sales and origination technology, announced that seasoned marketing executive Scott Shepherd has joined the company to head its marketing efforts. As head of marketing, he oversees ReverseVision's marketing department and is responsible for the design and implementation of its new marketing strategy.

Related link: https://www.reversevision.com/

Luxury brand leader, Lisa Baldwin, joins TAG CXO

PHOENIX, Ariz. /ScoopCloud/ -- Lisa Baldwin, an industry veteran with a track record of successes with paramount brands like Tiffany and Co., Coach and Macy's, is bringing her earned expertise to TAG CXO as a fractional CIO.

"We are very pleased to welcome Lisa to the firm and delighted to share her battle-tested experience and industry expertise with clients. Forged through an impressive career track, Lisa brings a genuine blend of executive traits, CIO accomplishments and personal poise to the table for mid-market operators. From large organizations and big brands, her people-focused demeanor, global program exposure and practical approach are second only to her poise and preparedness for each challenge," says Paul Theisen, founder of TAG CXO. "And now her unique talent is available to more firms, more often, on a more affordable and fractional basis!"

Baldwin's remarkable insights come from 30 years of IT experience, managing modernization and transformation across all aspects of business.

In her most recent role as CIO of a luxury jewelry retailer, Baldwin led technology globally and successfully launched an e-commerce website on Microsoft Azure in China. The revenue-generating website used the company's own tech and cloud computing stack, as compared to previous on-premise systems. The launch surpassed revenue targets and was a huge win for the company.

Baldwin is well versed in managing multi-faceted IT organizations. In previous roles, she's led the transformation and re-platforming of applications and tools delivered across the company - from supply chain to retail to cybersecurity.

While her resume boasts many successes, Baldwin credits the people around her. As a people-focused leader, Baldwin's tactic is to educate and motivate teams to reach their highest potential.

Those values translate well to the fractional CIO service model. Baldwin says her years of experience can benefit mid-market companies facing challenges as they grow.

"I like the idea of being able to help more than one company at a more strategic and advisory level," Baldwin says.

Baldwin is the recipient of the 2020 National Diversity & Leadership Award "Top CIOs". She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Georgia State University.

To learn more visit: https://tagcxo.com/about/lisa-baldwin

About TAG CXO:

Based in Phoenix, Arizona, TAG CXO is a privately held company, providing Interim and Fractional IT leadership executives, founded in 2019. The company maintains a distinguished reserve of industry-trained, enterprise-level executives, available on demand to mid-market CEOs. TAG CXO executives help to round out a firm's leadership team and close the IT talent gap with fully qualified expertise, offering a more affordable, lower-risk option than hiring full-time staff. Learn more at: https://tagcxo.com/.

TAG CXO, 7000 N 16th Street, Suite 120-167, Phoenix, AZ 85020.

Lisa Baldwin, an industry veteran with a track record of successes with paramount brands like Tiffany and Co., Coach and Macy's, is bringing her earned expertise to TAG CXO as a fractional CIO. Baldwin's remarkable insights come from 30 years of IT experience, managing modernization and transformation across all aspects of business.

Related link: https://tagcxo.com/

Paragon Hires Industry Vet for East Coast Expansion

AVON, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Paragon Insurance Holdings LLC, a nationwide multiline specialty managing general agent (MGA), is pleased to announce the hire of Patrick Carroll as senior vice president - Eastern Region, effective January 31.

"Pat will be in instrumental in helping expand our footprint, particularly on the East Coast," Paragon President Ron Mairano said. "He has deep rooted relationships in the insurance industry focusing much of that time in the workers' comp marketplace. We're all excited to have him join the team."

Carroll brings more than 38 years of property & casualty and workers' compensation experience to his role at Paragon. He has held leadership positions on both the carrier and MGA side and will be working with new and existing partners in the Eastern United States.

Carroll will report to Andrew Petersen, executive vice president.

"I'm excited to be back in the MGA space with people I have known for over 20 years and who have an incredible track record of success," Carroll said.

About Paragon:

Paragon, a broadly diversified MGA launched in 2014, supplies distinctive alternatives and options to retail brokers, insurance coverage carriers, reinsurers and vendor companions. The agency, which is owned Galway Holdings, writes all business strains of coverage throughout greater than 20 packages.

Please visit https://www.paragoninsgroup.com/ for additional information.

Paragon Insurance Holdings LLC, a nationwide multiline specialty managing general agent (MGA), is pleased to announce the hire of Patrick Carroll as senior vice president - Eastern Region, effective January 31, 2022. Carroll brings more than 38 years of property and casualty and workers' compensation experience to his role at Paragon.

Related link: https://www.paragoninsgroup.com/

Alliance Group, a leading national insurance marketing organization, announces a series of promotions for 2022

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Alliance Group, a leading national insurance marketing organization (IMO), announced a series of promotions within their ranks, effective immediately. Mark Powell was promoted from Systems Engineer to Chief Strategy Officer, a move that CEO Lee Duncan says will greatly benefit Alliance Group's technological push in 2022 and beyond.

"With Mark's help, we've developed a state-of-the-art Agent Portal this past year and Mark's promotion to CSO is going to help us continue to push the tools and systems we've developed for our agent and agency partners to the cutting edge from a technology standpoint," Duncan said. "I'm excited to see what Mark and his team can do with him in this new role".

Powell has previously headed up teams of up to 150 implementing technology solutions for Fortune 500 companies such as Cigna, Home Depot, Nationwide, and Blackstone Group, to name a few.

In another move, Boise, Idaho-based Steve Walther was tapped as the company's new VP of Sales and Distribution. Walther had previously held the title of National Training Director at Alliance Group.

"As Alliance Group grows, there's a need for someone to be focused exclusively on the tasks of finding ways to grow existing streams of business while developing new ones as well. Steve's experience in the industry has been a huge asset to us at Alliance Group for close to a decade now, and we're happy to see him step up into this new role for us," said Duncan.

Andrea Buffo was promoted to VP of Operations, a role that Duncan says she has really been fulfilling for some time now during her seven years with Alliance Group.

Of Buffo's move, Lee Duncan said, "I've always described Andrea as my right hand, and maybe my left as well. She possesses a keen eye for detail, and I've always appreciated her ability to organize and keep all the plates spinning for us on multiple fronts. This promotion will help us continue to keep all the tracks aligned as Alliance Group speeds toward our goal of $100 million of combined production by 2030."

To learn more please visit: https://www.AllianceGroupLife.com/

About Alliance Group:

Founded in 1998, Alliance Group is the nation's leading IMO in Living Benefits life insurance. With more than 4,500 independent agents nationally, Alliance Group is currently protecting over 130,000 American families with more than $28 billion of Living Benefits coverage.

Alliance Group, a leading national insurance marketing organization (IMO), announced a series of promotions within their ranks, effective immediately. Mark Powell was promoted from Systems Engineer to Chief Strategy Officer,

Related link: https://www.AllianceGroupLife.com/

Nomis Solutions Appoints Fintech Veteran George Neal as Chief Product Officer, Promotes Prashant Balepur to SVP, Corporate Strategy and Partnerships

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Nomis Solutions (Nomis), a global, industry-leading pricing and profitability management solutions provider, recently announced the appointment of George Neal as chief product officer. In this role, Neal will oversee strategy and development for new and existing products across all Nomis industry verticals. With a renewed corporate focus on strategic alliances and partner development, Nomis has also promoted Prashant Balepur to senior vice president of corporate strategy and partnerships. In his new position, Balepur will focus on accelerating existing partnerships as well as evaluating new partnership potentials.

"George is a tremendous addition to the Nomis team, and his vision for our product roadmap will benefit our clients and their customers in a remarkable way," explained Frank Rohde, president and CEO of Nomis Solutions. "While his two-plus decades of experience in fintech is certainly an asset, George also brings a fresh perspective and energy to Nomis, and we are enthusiastic about the direction in which we are heading under his leadership."

Neal joins Nomis from Q2, a digital banking solution, where he served as VP of data products. Previously, Neal spent several years as the chief analytics officer at PrecisionLender, which was acquired by Q2 in 2019. Prior to that role, Neal also gained extensive executive experience at American Savings Bank as the senior vice president of credit and analytics, technology and information security and support services. Neal's additional experiences at HEI, Aon Corporation 2G Consulting, and UBS have equipped him with both a strong technological and financial background.

"I am thrilled to join the team of pricing and profitability management experts at Nomis Solutions," said Neal. "The organization has established an excellent history in traditional pricing and modeling functions, truly setting the bar on understanding how price changes impact portfolios, balances, and overall profitability. We plan to leverage Nomis' immense knowledge across these functions into a cohesive and effective product strategy, providing our valued clients with best-in-class pricing and price execution."

Balepur assumes the SVP of corporate strategy and partnerships position, bringing deep market and technical knowledge to the role. During his tenure with Nomis Solutions, Balepur has played an integral part in leading product management, product marketing, and pre-sales.

"Prashant knows our customers, products, and partners intimately and has been invaluable in the evolution and growth of the organization," said Rohde. "He is perfectly positioned to engage our fintech partners to deliver joint offerings that drive success for our customers, partners, and Nomis."

"As a bank or lender, your goal is to win and serve clients - profitably. But too often, manual processes, rigid systems, and siloed data can limit your impact, disappointing customers, and frustrating employees," said Balepur. "Working with our fintech and cloud partners across data, digital, and core banking, Nomis is helping bring customer-centricity to every product, pricing and offer conversation and decision, resulting in a far more intelligent and impactful process for all parties involved."

Nomis partners with leading banks, mortgage lenders, and other financial institutions throughout the United States and Canada to deliver sophisticated price optimization tools. Through Nomis' advanced customer-centric pricing and profitability management solutions, lenders can leverage real-time data intelligence in a smarter way, to offer best-in-class pricing and deliver more value to their customers and borrowers.

About Nomis Solutions

Nomis Solutions is a global, industry-leading pricing and profitability management solutions provider that delivers competitive intelligence to bankers and mortgage lenders to facilitate more advanced pricing strategies. The company's analytics platform and end-to-end pricing tools enable retail banks and mortgage lenders to achieve customer- and borrower-centric pricing backed by real-time, actionable data. The platform also supports banks and mortgage lenders in their understanding and anticipation of the evolving demands of customers and borrowers, competitors, and ever-changing market conditions. For more information, please visit https://nomissolutions.com/.

Nomis Solutions (Nomis), a global, industry-leading pricing and profitability management solutions provider, recently announced the appointment of George Neal as chief product officer. In this role, Neal will oversee strategy and development for new and existing products across all Nomis industry verticals.

Related link: https://www.nomissolutions.com/

ReverseVision Hires Industry Veteran Steve Butler as Director of Business Development

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- ReverseVision®, the leading national provider of Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) and private reverse mortgage sales and origination technology, announced that it added long-time mortgage professional Steve Butler to the company's sales team, who brings more than 35 years of experience to the company. ReverseVision has been adding resources in key functional areas as part of its strategic expansion plan.

In this role, Mr. Butler will build upon ReverseVision's strong footprint in the reverse mortgage space. Specifically, he will educate lenders on the opportunity with reverse mortgage products and introduce the ReverseVision Exchange (RVX) loan origination system (LOS) to traditional lenders that are looking to add reverse products. In addition, he will update lenders on ReverseVision's API roadmap to enable reverse products to coexist with their existing LOS system, while also communicating with brokers and the wholesale lending community to begin originating reverse loans using RVX technology.

"We are pleased to have someone with Steve's industry experience and talent join our growing team," said Bill Mitchell, CRO at ReverseVision. "We continue to see an increasing demand for our reverse lending technology and adding mortgage professionals like Steve who possess rich industry experience and a proven track record of success will help us better serve clients as ReverseVision continues expanding."

Prior to joining ReverseVision, Mr. Butler spent just over a decade at mortgage compliance software provider QuestSoft where he spurred the company's sales and business development efforts for a leading mortgage product. While there, he worked closely with independent mortgage bankers, banks, credit unions and LOS vendors. Mr. Butler was consistently a top producer at QuestSoft, part of the management team, and helped with the transition after an acquisition by Ncontracts.

Mr. Butler's lengthy career in mortgage spans working for mortgage technology companies, lending entities and consulting firms. He is a seasoned sales professional that has experience in a multitude of mortgage lending facets.

"I am excited to join the team at ReverseVision and begin working with lenders to assist in diversifying their product offerings using technology," Butler said. "There is a great opportunity in reverse mortgages; it's an ideal time to leverage technology like ReverseVision offers to empower lenders with tech tools for success in reverse lending."

About ReverseVision:

Since 2007, ReverseVision (RV) has been the leading reverse mortgage technology provider, serving 50 of the top reverse mortgage lenders, 100 percent of reverse investors, and more than 10,000 daily users. RV's award-winning technology offers new APIs (Reverse-as-a-Service) that open the total addressable market, creating new technology synergies that allow forward and reverse mortgages to coexist in the lender's core systems, helping break down adoption barriers so that mortgage bankers can serve their borrowers for life.

ReverseVision's core platform, ReverseVision Exchange (RVX), is comprehensive and proven to automate the entire reverse lending process from origination through secondary marketing. The company's technology is being successfully leveraged as a springboard that helps lenders get into the reverse space easily and efficiently. For more information, visit https://www.reversevision.com/.

Social: @ReverseVision #ReverseLendingAutomation #ReverseMortgageTechnology #ReverseLendingTechnology #HomeEquityConversionMortgage

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.reversevision.com/rvx/

ReverseVision®, the leading national provider of Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) and private reverse mortgage sales and origination technology, announced that it added long-time mortgage professional Steve Butler to the company's sales team, who brings more than 35 years of experience to the company. ReverseVision has been adding resources in key functional areas as part of its strategic expansion plan.

Related link: https://www.reversevision.com/

EnergyCAP Names Lalit Agarwal Vice President, Energy Management and Sustainability

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- EnergyCAP, LLC, the leading provider of energy management and utility bill processing software, today announced that Lalit Agarwal has been named Vice President, Energy Management & Sustainability.

This new leadership position at EnergyCAP will not only serve as the corporate subject matter expert in building energy management but will spearhead the company's ambition to expand its offerings for sustainability and carbon reduction goals as it relates to the built environment.

Lalit Agarwal formerly served as the Executive Director of University Operations and held numerous other energy and facilities roles over his 20+ year tenure at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). At UNL, he and his team implemented EnergyCAP in 2016 to underpin the university's energy reduction and sustainability initiatives. Using technology driven innovative initiatives, from 2004 to 2020 UNL reduced their annual energy consumption 44% while the student enrollment and research activity increased on campus.

Lalit serves on the Board of Directors for multiple industry associations, including the Central Association of Physical Plant Administrators (CAPPA) and the International District Energy Association (IDEA). He currently chairs the Association of Physical Plant Administrators (APPA) Task Force for Productive, Smart Buildings Initiative. He holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Osmania University in India and an MBA from the University Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL).

"The Vice President of Energy Management and Sustainability will play a critical role in the strategic direction of EnergyCAP," said Tom Patterson, CEO at EnergyCAP. "For someone like Lalit, who is so well respected in this industry, to have such conviction and belief around EnergyCAP's capabilities is strong validation of our solutions and our vision for the future. His decision to join our team emphasizes the magnitude, importance, and potential of the opportunity ahead of us."

"I have used my skills to serve UNL for the last two decades. With this transition, I hope to serve a broader array of institutions and organizations in helping them make progress towards and achieve their ESG goals," said Lalit Agarwal.

He added, "Since I was first introduced to EnergyCAP as a client in 2016, I have been very impressed with their focused approach to leveraging technology to solve the energy & sustainability industry challenges. I have also been very impressed by the team having such strong conviction in their mission. I look forward to joining the team, achieving collective success for the industry, and helping to drive a more energy efficient and sustainable world."

About EnergyCAP:

EnergyCAP is trusted by 10,000+ Energy Managers across the country to aggregate and monitor their utility and energy data. We help our clients make data-driven decisions about their building operations to increase energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint. Learn more at https://www.energycap.com/.

EnergyCAP, LLC, the leading provider of energy management and utility bill processing software, today announced that Lalit Agarwal has been named Vice President, Energy Management & Sustainability.

Related link: https://www.energycap.com/

Florida Podiatric Group Brings High-Tech, High-Quality Healthcare to Largo

LARGO, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Modern Foot & Ankle opens its sixth clinic - and first in Pinellas County - on Friday. The Central Florida podiatric group has selected Kyle Haverstrom, DPM, as the provider for the new Largo, Florida, location.

"I wanted to join Modern Foot & Ankle because it's at the forefront of technology when it comes to foot and ankle care and becoming a well-known force in Tampa and Orlando," said Dr. Haverstrom. "The technology-based approach is appealing to me because giving patients the most state-of-the-art treatments for all issues, big and small, is important."

Underscoring the necessity of creating personalized experiences, Dr. Haverstrom also pointed to the group's facilitation of "quick results, up-to-date treatments, and same-day appointments" as vital to achieving optimal outcomes.

"It allows patients to get better faster," he added.

Dr. Haverstrom came to the Largo and Clearwater area by way of Family Foot Health Center in Rogers, Arkansas, where he honed his surgical skills. He noted that his postgraduate training at Jefferson Health in Philadelphia, which focused on sports medicine, arthroscopy, pediatrics, and trauma, prioritized implementing surgical advances.

"I enjoy the surgical aspect of the specialty," said Dr. Haverstrom, "but I will try all conservative therapies before going into the operating room."

The brand-new office, located on the third floor of the professional center at 11200 Seminole Blvd., in Largo, houses digital X-ray and ultrasound technologies. The space has been under renovation since last August to bring it into line with Modern Foot & Ankle's signature contemporary look.

But it's the proximity to surf and sand that speaks to the podiatrist's background.

"The patients in this area are great! They are very active, and I love being able to help them get back on their feet to enjoy the sun, beach, and outdoors," explained Dr. Haverstrom. "Coming from a sports family and growing up playing hockey, I had many foot and ankle injuries. I feel I can relate with my patients on a personal level and really provide the best care possible."

About Modern Foot & Ankle®

Through Big-City Technology. Small-Town Care.® Modern Foot & Ankle is reshaping the patient experience and curating a progressive model for podiatric healthcare. Our physicians provide comprehensive medical and surgical solutions for foot and ankle conditions in clinics across Central Florida. With 24/7 online booking and check-in, extended office hours, advanced on-site equipment, and cutting-edge treatment options, Modern Foot & Ankle serves patients efficiently, comfortably, and on their schedule.

For more information, visit https://modernfootankle.com/

RELATED LINKS:

https://modernfootankle.com/largo-office/

https://modernfootankle.com/dr-kyle-haverstrom/

Modern Foot & Ankle opens its sixth clinic - and first in Pinellas County - on Friday. The Central Florida podiatric group has selected Kyle Haverstrom, DPM, as the provider for the new Largo, Florida, location.

Related link: https://modernfootankle.com/

Mid America Mortgage Welcomes Jarred Talmadge to its team of reverse mortgage experts

ADDISON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Mid America Mortgage, Inc. (Mid America) announced industry veteran Jarred Talmadge has joined Mid America as Western Reverse Mortgage Sales Manager. In this role, Talmadge is responsible for expanding Mid America's reverse mortgage presence in the Western U.S.

"Mid America is dedicated to addressing the diverse needs of every borrower, including existing homeowners seeking to tap into their home's equity in retirement," said Mid America Owner and CEO Jeff Bode. "Reverse mortgage borrowers are often underserved even though seniors comprise a significant portion of the homeowner market. We're extremely pleased to announce Jarred has joined our team and thrilled to expand our team of reverse mortgage experts."

Talmage brings more than 25 years of mortgage industry experience and has spent the last three years specifically focused on reverse mortgages. Talmage joins Mid America from the American Advisors Group, where he was the Market Sales Manager for the Rocky Mountain region. In addition to being an industry veteran, Talmage is an author and instructor, offering real estate agents, loan officers and financial planners courses in sales, marketing and reverse mortgage.

In 2020, Talmadge authored the book "Too Good To Be Free: How a Reverse Mortgage Can Improve Your Life, Your Cash Flow and Pay You Too." It can be found on Amazon.com. He's also been a guest on channel 9News NBC in Denver, Colorado and Company, KLZ AM 560 and on the Michael Bailey Radio Show. Talmadge earned his Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Phoenix.

"As a reverse mortgage specialist, I'm passionate about helping lenders, borrowers and real estate agents understand the often-misunderstood product that reverse mortgage is," said Talmadge. "The best part of the mortgage business is being able to help other people, to have this ability expanded at Mid America is exhilarating."

To learn more about joining Mid America's reverse mortgage team, contact Talmadge at jarred.talmadge@midamericamortgage.com

About Mid America Mortgage, Inc.

Mid America Mortgage, Inc., Addison, Texas, is a multi-state, full-service mortgage lender serving consumers and mortgage originators through its retail, wholesale, and correspondent channels. We offer a wide range of residential home loan programs to meet the needs of most home buyers and homeowners and are also the nation's leading provider of Section 184 home loans for Native Americans. Learn more at https://www.midamericamortgage.com/.

In operation since 1940, Mid America has thrived by retaining its entrepreneurial spirit and leading the market in innovation, including its adoption of eClosings eNotes. Click n' Close is Mid America's ultra-secure, digital mortgage approval and closing process that gets home buyers from application to closing within two weeks. With just a few clicks at closing, Click n' Close puts keys in the home buyer's hand in 15 minutes or less. Apply online at https://www.midamericamortgage.com/click-n-close/#cnc.

Frequently named a top mortgage employer/workplace by industry trade magazines such as Mortgage Professional America, MReport, National Mortgage News and National Mortgage Professional, Mid America is looking for tech-savvy, service-oriented mortgage professionals to join our growing team. We are dedicated to providing our employees with industry-leading tools and technology to deliver a great package of competitive pricing, programs and knowledgeable service. Want to join our team? Visit https://www.midamericamortgage.com/careers/.

Mid America Mortgage, Inc. (Mid America) announced industry veteran Jarred Talmadge has joined Mid America as Western Reverse Mortgage Sales Manager. In this role, Talmadge is responsible for expanding Mid America's reverse mortgage presence in the Western U.S.

Related link: https://www.midamericamortgage.com/

KJ Stephens Joins EPIC – Further Expands EPIC’s Employee Benefits Practice

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that KJ Stephens has joined the firm as Vice President within its Employee Benefits Practice.

In his new position with EPIC, Stephens will be responsible for bringing new client relationships to EPIC. He will develop health and welfare plan strategies for his clients and deploy the EPIC team and resources needed to meet client goals. He will create strategies that take clients' benefits to a high performing level.

Reporting to Robyn Pawlo, Executive Managing Principal, NorCal Employee Benefits, Stephens will work from the firm's Rancho Cordova, CA office. He joins EPIC from the Leavitt Group where he was an employee benefits consultant.

"We are excited to have KJ join the EPIC family. HIs integrity, enthusiasm and strong record of advocating for his clients will be an excellent fit with EPIC's culture," commented Pawlo. "We look forward to supporting KJ's continued business growth with our expanded Client Services Platform and through collaboration with his new EPIC team."

Kevin Harnetiaux, Territory President, Northern California, commented, "KJ will be an outstanding addition to our team and will help us continue to build our employee benefits expertise in the Northern California territory."

Stephens graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from California Baptist University, and attained a Master's degree from Azusa Pacific University. He was born and raised in Southern California, and enjoys being outdoors, camping, coaching his kids' teams, and spending time with family.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail insurance brokerage, has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to clients. EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S.

Learn more at: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants (EPIC), a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that KJ Stephens has joined the firm as Vice President within its Employee Benefits Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Olea Kiosks®, Inc. Announces Promotion of Daniel Olea to Director of Sales, Accelerating its Sales and Strategic Focus

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Olea Kiosks®, Inc., a visionary provider of innovative self-service kiosk solutions, today announced the expanded role of Daniel Olea to Director of Sales.

In this role, Daniel's responsibilities will include both sales team leadership and revenue acceleration through new strategic vertical markets. With his ability to build relationships and his detailed analysis and recognition of emerging trends, Daniel will lead the sales team through its next stage of growth and continue to build and execute its corporate strategy.

As the fourth generation in the business, Daniel spent several years as an account executive with the company, and each year demonstrated growth. With a strong understanding for strategic initiatives, in 2021, he was promoted to Director of Business Development and led the company in its development of long-term growth plans.

"With our focus on strategic growth, we need a sales leader that can set a strategy to propel us forward and lead and motivate the team to work towards our next objective. In 2021, Daniel delivered solid results with his focus on Strategic Business Development. He'll now take that model and replicate it as he works to expand our footprint and empower the sales team to excel," added CEO Frank Olea.

Learn more about Olea Kiosks: https://www.olea.com/about-us/kiosk-design/.

About Olea Kiosks, Inc.

Olea Kiosks® Inc., is a self-service kiosk solution provider for the attractions and entertainment, healthcare and hospitality industries. Its technologically advanced, in-house manufacturing, design, and innovation have made it an industry leader. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, customers include The Habit Burger Grill, Kaiser Permanente, Empire State Building, Universal Studios, EVO Entertainment, Scientific Games, and Subway.

For more information, visit https://www.olea.com/.

Olea Kiosks®, Inc., a visionary provider of innovative self-service kiosk solutions, today announced the expanded role of Daniel Olea to Director of Sales. Olea Kiosks, is a self-service kiosk solution provider for the attractions and entertainment, healthcare and hospitality industries.

Related link: https://www.olea.com/

Promontory MortgagePath promotes Kevin Wheeler to managing director

DANBURY, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage and fulfillment solutions, announced today it has promoted Kevin Wheeler to managing director of product and engineering. Wheeler previously held the position of director of backend engineering at Promontory MortgagePath.

"Kevin's initiative and drive to consistently evolve process and back-office functions in addition to the customer experience have made him an asset at Promontory MortgagePath since day one," said Dean McCall, chief information officer at Promontory MortgagePath. "From constantly improving the back-end efficiencies of Promontory MortgagePath's tech stack to building the framework needed for new product launches and government-required changes, Kevin's work positively impacts our clients each and every day. This promotion is both well-deserved and a direct result of Kevin's hard work and passion for Promontory MortgagePath's mission to help community banks expand homeownership opportunities."

In his time at Promontory MortgagePath, Wheeler has been a driving force in engineering the technologies supporting Promontory MortgagePath's digital mortgage and fulfillment solutions. One example of this support has been Wheeler's work on Borrower Wallet(r), Promontory MortgagePath's proprietary point-of-sale technology. Borrower Wallet is redefining the lending experience by offering functionality specifically designed to improve efficiency and create a superior user experience for community bank customers. Wheeler works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the backend of Promontory MortgagePath's technology operations is running smoothly and efficiently.

"The talented team at Promontory MortgagePath is among the best with which I've worked," Wheeler said. "I am enthusiastic about what the future holds and welcome the opportunity to play a more prominent role in continuing the company's advancement in the community lending space."

About Promontory MortgagePath LLC | NMLS ID 1532373

Promontory MortgagePath is a fast-growing team of passionate problem solvers on a mission to fundamentally change the way lenders approach their mortgage business. The company combines an intuitive, collaborative digital mortgage platform with modern, comprehensive fulfillment services, giving lenders the progressive technology and scalability required to profitably compete in today's rapidly changing residential mortgage market. Promontory MortgagePath's founder, former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency Gene Ludwig, is widely recognized as a visionary thinker on the critical issues confronting financial services, and his companies are renowned for helping community lenders resolve their most pressing challenges. To learn more, visit https://www.mortgagepath.com.

Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage and fulfillment solutions, announced today it has promoted Kevin Wheeler to managing director of product and engineering. Wheeler previously held the position of director of backend engineering at Promontory MortgagePath.

Related link: https://www.mortgagepath.com/