Women are powerful agents of change, and though diversity and gender equality have made progress, women continue to be vastly under-represented in decision-making in business, and the mortgage industry. That’s why it’s important that Nationwide Mortgage Bankers has committed to placing even more women in leadership roles. For the month of March, we interviewed five female leaders at NMB in order to dive into their journey and honor our women in leadership.
This week concludes our celebration of women in leadership with our EVP, Operations, Mary O’Sullivan.
Who are your role models or people who have influenced you most throughout your life or career?
My Mother has been the most influential person to me in life and business. She has taught me from a young age the importance of a strong work ethic, having empathy toward all relationships, and to most carry myself with high personal standards, dignity, and respect.
When you aren’t working, what would your friends/family find you doing?
Enjoying time with my husband and daughter Gigi. Before the pandemic, I enjoyed going to restaurants as I am a big-time “foodie.” I love to travel to warm destinations and during the summers I enjoy being on the boat and at the beach!
Which NMB core value connects with you the most and why?
People Matter! Taking the time to acknowledge people whether they are NMB clients, staff, vendors or people in my personal life, and making concrete relationships that can last a lifetime is something very near and dear to my heart.
What is something that not many people know about you, something that can’t be found in your bio online, something that people can’t google about you?
I’m a big-time Jeopardy fan – total nerd 🙂
What do you find most fulfilling about your work?
I get to help people achieve their dream of homeownership
How long have you been in the mortgage industry?
22 years
How and why did you decide to get into this industry?
As college graduation was approaching, I was unsure about accepting a job for NBC. My brother-in-law was a loan officer and suggested I give loan sales a try. The rest is history.
What are some key factors that have played a role in your development through your company, your career, and your industry?
The biggest factor I feel has contributed to my success is my desire to build meaningful relationships with people. I truly am a people person, and I naturally like to get to know people and build lasting relationships with them. This has helped me maintain strong business contacts with lending partners, vendors, and attorneys and also has helped me retain good people.
What sets NMB apart from other lenders?
The desire to be the best in the business is common for most lenders. At NMB – we have the drive to be the best, but we never lose sight of the correct way to achieve it. NMB wants all employees to be their best selves and in turn, the culture makes NMB the BEST and impossible to beat.
What sets you apart from others in your similar position?
I am open to all sides of the situation. The lender’s perspective is important, but so are the perspectives of the originators, the investors, the clients, sellers, attorneys, etc. I pride myself on being fair and decent and always have the best interest of all in the decisions I make
How are agents impacted by the support you and NMB can offer?
We are consistent with our lending practices. Our departments work like well-oiled machines. Our referral partners know what to expect when dealing with NMB. No surprises. We are upfront, and honest, attack any hurdles head-on and treat every loan ad every client with respect and integrity.
If there is one thing you could tell someone if they were considering making a move to NMB, what would it be?
Stop what you are doing and join the best work-family NOW!
