Director of Operations (Financial Services/Lending)

Our client is the largest private lender in the Mid-Atlantic, providing fast, flexible financing solutions to real estate investors, builders, and developers. With a reputation for quick approvals, exceptional service, and creative lending solutions, the firm has become a trusted capital partner for thousands of real estate professionals. As the organization continues to grow, they are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead and optimize their lending operations. Position Overview The Director of Operations will oversee the day-to-day execution of the company's lending operation, ensuring loans move efficiently from application through funding while maintaining exceptional service standards. This individual will lead operational strategy, improve cross-functional execution, implement scalable processes, and leverage technology to increase efficiency across the organization. Working closely with executive leadership, this role will drive operational excellence, enhance the borrower experience, and position the company for continued growth. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership & Process Improvement Lead and optimize end-to-end lending operations, including processing, underwriting, closing, funding, and servicing. Develop and implement scalable operational processes that improve efficiency, quality, and customer experience. Partner with Sales, Underwriting, Servicing, Finance, and Technology teams to improve communication and execution across departments. Identify operational bottlenecks and implement solutions that reduce cycle times and improve productivity. Ensure operational processes remain compliant with internal policies, lending guidelines, and regulatory requirements. Evaluate, implement, and optimize technology platforms that improve operational efficiency and workflow automation. Maximize the effectiveness of the firm's Loan Origination System (LOS), CRM, servicing platform, and other operational tools. Lead digital transformation initiatives that enhance both internal operations and the borrower experience. Utilize operational data and reporting to drive informed business decisions and continuous improvement. Strategic Leadership Partner with executive leadership to establish and execute operational priorities aligned with company growth objectives. Develop, monitor, and report on key operational metrics and KPIs. Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations team while fostering a culture of accountability, ownership, and continuous improvement. Lead cross-functional initiatives that improve scalability and organizational performance. Lending Operations & Financial Management Oversee loan processing, underwriting support, funding, and servicing operations to ensure timely, accurate execution. Partner with Finance and Treasury to support liquidity management and funding operations. Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency while maintaining high service levels and strong credit quality. Manage operational risk and implement controls that support long-term organizational success. Qualifications 5+ years of leadership experience in lending operations, mortgage banking, private lending, commercial lending, or real estate finance. Demonstrated success improving operational processes and leading organizational change. Experience implementing or optimizing Loan Origination Systems (LOS), CRM platforms, workflow automation tools, or other lending technologies. Strong understanding of the loan lifecycle from origination through servicing. Proven ability to analyze operational data, establish KPIs, and drive measurable performance improvements. Exceptional leadership, communication, and project management skills. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth environment while managing multiple priorities. Preferred Experience Experience within private lending, hard money lending, bridge lending, or commercial real estate finance. Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies. Experience leading digital transformation or enterprise technology implementation projects. Why Join? Join the leading private lender in the Mid-Atlantic. Play a critical leadership role in shaping the future of a rapidly growing organization. Work alongside an experienced executive team with significant growth ambitions. Competitive compensation package with opportunities for career advancement. High-impact position with the ability to influence strategy, technology, and operational excellence. #J-18808-Ljbffr Graystone Group