About Ascent

Ascent Developer Solutions is a leading private lending platform, serving real estate developers nationwide in the acquisition, renovation, and construction of residential real estate. Founded by a leadership team with a deep understanding and personal experience in virtually every facet of real estate development, Ascent is uniquely positioned to create custom, innovative lending solutions for a variety of real estate development business strategies.

The Role

The SVP of Credit is a Senior Credit role, reporting to the Chief Risk Officer. This position requires proven success in Commercial and Construction loans, and both Sponsor and Loan Underwriting. The SVP of Credit requires prior credit approval authority and is responsible for effective cross-functional collaboration with internal counterparts, direct reports, and senior leadership.

The Work

• Oversee underwriting processes at both sponsor and loan levels, ensuring adherence to credit policies and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain, develop, and implement underwriting guidelines, policies, and procedures.
• Act as a pre-underwriting filter for loan feasibility assessments.
• Monitor credit portfolios, conduct periodic sponsor-level risk assessments, and implement risk mitigation strategies.
• Analyze financial data to support prudent lending decisions and portfolio optimization.
• Organize, chair, and vote on the Senior Credit Committee, ensuring sound decision-making on credit matters.
• Ensure underwriting operations align with regulatory changes and collaborate with compliance teams to maintain compliant practices.
• Recommend and implement industry best practices in the industry to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.
• Recruit, train, mentor, and supervise underwriting and credit analysis teams, fostering a high-performing and collaborative culture.
• Encourage continuous improvement and innovation within the team.
• Build strong working relationships with sales leadership, sales support, and other key stakeholders, such as the Senior Vice President of Valuations.
• Develop efficient underwriting processes and identify opportunities for ongoing improvement in monitoring and operations.

Your Skills and Experience

• 7 + years of experience in commercial real estate/construction lending, underwriting, with at least 5 years’ direct experience and accountability for credit approval authority and credit administration activities.
• Proven experience in both Construction Project and Sponsor Underwriting, preferably in regulated lending institutions.
• Bachelor's degree in finance, business, or related field; MBA or equivalent work experience is a plus
• Strong knowledge of financial analysis, credit risk modeling, and regulatory compliance
• Exceptional interpersonal and written communication skills
• Leadership track record of leading and developing Underwriting and Credit Analyst teams
• Proficiency in financial software and tools, including Loan Operating System, financial spreads, and risk-scoring tools

The Pay

Salary for this position is $175,000-$250,000 plus performance-based bonus up to 30%.

The Work Environment

• This role works on-site from Ascent's Encino office, Monday - Thursday (Fridays are work-from-home).
• Full-time, 40 hours per week; must be available for occasional overtime.
• Some nights and weekends required.

Ascent’s Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and work-life balance. Our benefits include five health plans, four dental plans, health savings and flexible spending accounts, vision coverage, and other optional benefits to choose from.

Ascent’s Pledge

We pledge to be fair and considerate in hiring and promoting individuals, ensuring everyone can contribute their fullest potential regardless of background, identity, or personal circumstances. By promoting equal opportunity, we not only enhance our workplace but also contribute to a more just and equitable society. At Ascent, we stand united in building a community where everyone is empowered to succeed. Thank you for joining us on our journey towards a more inclusive future.