Angel Oak Home Loans has hired two mortgage pros to lead its expansion efforts throughout the Western region.

The company appointed 18-year mortgage veteran Sean Casey as Western sales manager and industry leader Kristy Benson as regional operations manager. Angel Oak said that the appointments are geared toward establishing and scaling its retail branches in California, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Arizona, and Nevada. 

“The Angel Oak team has done a tremendous job rising to the challenges we have faced this year,” said Richard LaNasa, president of Angel Oak Home Loans. “We have managed to develop and execute on a strategic game plan to grow the firm and bring our traditional and non-QM products to the Western region of the US. We are confident that Sean and Kristy are the best in the business to oversee this plan. Their knowledge of the mortgage industry and experience in team leadership and development will be key to driving success.”

Drawing on his extensive experience in the mortgage lending industry, Casey will oversee the branch openings and executive plans for growth across the region. Meanwhile, Benson will be responsible for day-to-day operations, project management, and team development.

Since 2019, Angel Oak has opened 19 new branches in the Southeastern region and California, bringing the number of its retail branches nationwide to a total of 36. The firm also plans to fill key leadership positions as the Western branches go online.