BREAKOUT SESSION: Winning Strategies for Small to Midsized Lenders

Chief Operations Officer, Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group, LLC

Christina “Chrissy” Zotzmann Brown is the Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group, a leading retail-only independent mortgage company known for its commitment to lending peace of mind to homebuyers and homeowners. Founded in 1996, Atlantic Bay specializes in residential lending with a focus on personalized service, responsible lending, and innovative technology. The company closed over $4 billion in loan volume last year and has been recognized as the #1 Best Large Mortgage Company to Work For three consecutive years by National Mortgage News. With more than 25 years of mortgage industry experience, Chrissy has held almost every position in the mortgage industry. She joined Atlantic Bay in 2011 and rose through leadership positions before being named COO in 2021. In her role, she oversees loan operations and enterprise strategy, with a focus on operational excellence, digital innovation, and culture. A Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB), Chrissy serves on advisory councils for the MBA’s IMB Executive Council and LendersOne and is a frequent contributor to industry conversations through podcasts and other platforms. Her leadership has earned her recognition as a HousingWire Finance Leader, Woman of Influence, and recipient of the HousingWire Vanguard Award.

President, Success Mortgage Partners, Inc.

Allison Johnston, a visionary leader with a profound understanding of the mortgage industry, has risen to prominence as a driving force behind Success Mortgage Partners, Inc. (SMP), an Independent Mortgage Bank headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. With an commitment to excellence, Allison’s journey is marked by a series of remarkable achievements and contributions that have not only propelled her to the presidency of SMP but have also reshaped the landscape of mortgage banking. Allison’s remarkable odyssey in the mortgage sector began in 2013 when she joined the ranks of Success Mortgage Partners. However, her connection to the industry spans over 30 years, amassing a wealth of experience, knowledge, and insight. Allison was bestowed with the prestigious title of President of Success Mortgage Partners in 2019. This appointment underscored her exceptional leadership qualities and her pivotal role in steering the organization toward new horizons of success. A standout achievement in Allison’s journey was her attainment of the Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB) designation in 2015. This accolade demonstrates her expertise and underscores her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. Allison earned her Master’s Degree in Business Management. Allison is also an instructor for the Mortgage Bankers Association and teaches classes regularly. Allison’s influence extends beyond her role at SMP. As the past Chairwoman of the State of Michigan Governmental Mortgage Industry Advisory Board, she has played a crucial role in shaping industry policies, demonstrating her advocacy for responsible and effective mortgage practices. Her participation in influential organizations like The Mortgage Collaborative, where she holds the Past Chairwomen Board Member position, and her past Michigan Mortgage Lenders Association presidency further attest to her standing as a luminary in the field. Allison has received several awards, including the Movers and Shakers, Ambassador Award, and Vic Miller Award. Allison’s influence transcends state borders. With a Mortgage Loan Officer License spanning 42 states and the District of Columbia, she has extended her expertise and impact across a vast geographic expanse. Under her stewardship, SMP has cemented its presence in these regions, fostering growth and nurturing client relationships.

Chief Executive Officer, Flat Branch Home Loans

Karen Kreutziger Powell is the Chief Executive Officer and current Chair of the Flat Branch Mortgage Board of Directors. With over 24 years of experience in the mortgage industry and 15 years at Flat Branch Mortgage, she has grown into a key industry leader in the Midwest. Flat Branch has grown into a leading presence in the industry across divisions including retail, wholesale, servicing and insurance. She serves on multiple advisory boards, including RESBOG within the MBA. Recognized as a 2023 Vanguard recipient, her mission is to empower families to achieve homeownership across the nation. Karen is passionate about giving back to the communities we serve and most proud of helping launch The Giving Branch, an employee funded non-profit that supports our local communities.