Erin R. Hoffman
Champaign
Summary
Demonstrated expertise as an underwriter with over 25 years in banking, specializing in credit administration for over 17 years. Leverages extensive leadership experience and robust problem-solving abilities to effectively tackle new tasks. Exhibited a results-driven mindset while adapting to dynamic situations fostering innovative solutions. Committed to making meaningful contributions and advancing organizational goals.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Vice President/Retail Lending Underwriter
Busey Bank
Champaign, IL
05.2015 - Current
- Execute underwriting processes for home equity products (HELOCs) and non-real estate consumer loans, ensuring compliance with regulations and bank policies.
- Oversee decision-making processes to apply sound judgment in policy exceptions. Developed strategies to accommodate loan requests and present viable alternatives, effectively managing the bank's risk exposure.
- Establish necessary underwriting conditions and execute comprehensive documentation reviews to secure final approval.
- Conduct in-depth credit, income, and asset analysis. Evaluate and accurately calculate diverse income types, including fixed, variable, self-employed, and rental income. Review residential real estate appraisals, automated valuation reports, and title reports/commitments to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Assist originators and team members by providing guidance and mentorship. Regular collaboration with originators to identify optimal products and solutions for clients. Maintain open communication with originators throughout the loan process to facilitate informed discussions with clients regarding loan applications.
- Facilitate collaboration among underwriters, processors, closers, and originators while managing independent tasks. Coordinate with various departments, including commercial credit, private banking, and wealth management, to enhance project outcomes.
- Assist department manager by providing leadership support during critical times. Aid in the execution of special projects as required.
- Cross-trained in conventional and portfolio mortgage underwriting to support teams during peak volume periods. Gained experience in underwriting Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae loans.
AVP/Retail Lending Production Center Manager
Busey Bank
Champaign, IL
12.2008 - 05.2015
- Directed and coordinated activities of consumer and home equity processing and closing team, enhancing communication and performance among geographically dispersed associates.
- Facilitated successful hiring processes by interviewing candidates for department positions. Produced effective training materials that streamlined onboarding for new hires. Enhanced team performance through dedicated coaching and support for current members.
- Oversaw staff training on policy and regulatory updates to ensure compliance.
- Implemented coaching strategies as a "service plus" coach, fostering a culture of exceptional service among associates.
- Facilitated collaboration by stepping in to assist team members whenever necessary.
- Directed training initiatives for front-line staff in retail lending processes and systems. Mentored originators, offering continuous support to foster skill development and confidence. Contributed to team growth by enhancing knowledge and operational efficiency.
- Managed system administration for loan origination software to support user needs and maintain functionality. Participated in vendor-led seminars and user meetings to improve understanding of system features and enhance software use.
- Played a key role in preparation and implementation of policies, procedures, and workflow processes. Prepared revisions to loan policy for review and approval by the Board of Directors.
- Supported retail credit manager and chief retail credit officer in executing special projects. Developed monthly Excel reports for management review. Conducted analysis of loan volume, portfolio performance, and policy exceptions to inform decision-making.
- Served as key liaison and primary contact for various departments, partnering with managers to drive successful completion of special projects.
- Assisted risk management teams in researching and gathering information for regulatory exams, audits, and internal compliance monitoring programs. Participated in monthly compliance committee meetings to address compliance issues and identify areas for training or procedure updates. Supported planning efforts for upcoming regulatory changes.
- Provided second review and concurrence for all credit denials from underwriting to ensure agreement with credit decisions and adherence to policy and compliance with fair lending regulations.
- Regularly provided back-up with underwriting.
Retail Loan Coordinator & Closing Specialist
Busey Bank
Champaign, IL
05.2008 - 12.2008
- I was hired to this position with the expectation of transitioning into the Retail Lending Production Manager role by year-end, as that role would be opening up due to the planned retirement of another team member. In addition to the main responsibilities of this role, I quickly assumed the responsibility of backing up and assisting the department manager with all aspects of that position.
- Reviewed home equity and non-real estate consumer loan requests for accuracy and adherence to policy and regulatory guidelines, requesting additional information, as needed, to process loan requests. Examined information received for completeness and sufficiency, and requested and gathered additional documentation needed to present the loan for underwriting.
- Facilitated compliance by preparing and mailing disclosures, and performing required regulatory tasks and tests associated with loan applications.
- Coordinated with third-party vendors to secure appraisals and title work, while meticulously gathering and reviewing required information for clear to close issuance.
- Responsible for preparation of closing documents, completion of file, loan funding, and submission of documents to operations team for booking to the core system.
- Preparation on loan modifications, subordination agreements, and other various documents, as needed.
Assistant Banking Center Manager
Busey Bank
Champaign, IL
12.2005 - 05.2008
- Worked closely with the Banking Center Manager on daily branch operations, training for staff, and branch sales goals.
- Managed teller operations by overseeing training and development of teller staff. Supported staff with technical, sales, and customer service training. Assisted in the interview and hiring process for new tellers alongside banking center manager.
- Other regular tasks and duties included but not limited to the following: performing daily auditing of the vault and periodic audits of individual teller drawers to ensure they were in balance; working closely with operations to ensure transactions and tickets submitted by teller staff were in balance; assisting with customer issues, questions, or concerns when needed; providing additional approval when needed for transactions outside teller limits.
- Worked with customers daily as a Personal Banker and Consumer Lender to assist them with various banking and consumer lending needs.
Personal Banker & Consumer Lender
Busey Bank
Champaign, IL
06.2005 - 12.2005
- Managed client onboarding by opening new deposit accounts and guiding loan application submissions.
- Assessed client financial needs and recommended suitable products and services.
- Managed customer accounts and facilitated proactive communication to address financial needs.
- Collaborated with various departments to pinpoint needs-based opportunities and streamline sales referrals for enhanced customer satisfaction.
Teller/Teller Trainer
Busey Bank
Champaign, IL
05.2000 - 06.2005
- Executed teller operations, including deposits, withdrawals, loan payments, and wire transfers, while prioritizing customer service excellence.
- Identified opportunities for cross-sales and referrals to optimize customer service outcomes.
- Designated to facilitate training sessions for new hires, enhancing operational efficiency within market/region.
- Achieved designation as a 'Service Plus' coach through completion of specialized training.
Education
English Major
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Miscellaneous Classes
Parkland College
Champaign, ILSkills
- Strong analytical capabilities to identify and resolve complex issues
- Detail Oriented
- Data Driven
- Strong Compliance Background
- Time Management Skills – Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize tasks as needed
- Versatility - Ability to adapt to change and learn quickly
- Effective management, leadership, and communication skills
- Excellent Customer Service Skills
- Remote and Hybrid work experience (6 years)
- Ability to work independently and collaborate as part of a team
- Growth Mindset Thrives when able to learn from and teach others
- Experience with Word, Excel, Adobe Pro, and Smartsheets
- Experience with Multiple Loan Origination Platforms
- Training, Mentoring, and Coaching Experience
Timeline
Vice President/Retail Lending Underwriter
Busey Bank
05.2015 - Current
AVP/Retail Lending Production Center Manager
Busey Bank
12.2008 - 05.2015
Retail Loan Coordinator & Closing Specialist
Busey Bank
05.2008 - 12.2008
Assistant Banking Center Manager
Busey Bank
12.2005 - 05.2008
Personal Banker & Consumer Lender
Busey Bank
06.2005 - 12.2005
Teller/Teller Trainer
Busey Bank
05.2000 - 06.2005
English Major
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Miscellaneous Classes
Parkland College