Aklero Risk Analytics Inc., a provider of automated data and document validity assurance for the mortgage industry, has announced that it has appointed Richard J. Downing as executive vice president of sales. Downing is a veteran of the mortgage and consumer data industries, with more than 30 years of experience in working to deliver technology-based consumer lending solutions to residential and equity lenders.
“We are thrilled to be bringing Rich onto our team because he brings to the company an unparalleled understanding of the loan quality and risk management needs of the mortgage market,” said Brian K. Fitzpatrick, chief executive officer at Aklero. “He chose to work here because he recognized that we are challenging the traditional 'low tech' methods of analyzing loan quality and risk by providing clients with proven technology that provides a compelling value proposition.”
Downing comes to Aklero with a successful record of business and sales strategy development, most recently as senior vice president at Kroll Factual Data. He also served as president of The Credit Network. He has extensive experience in managing strategic direction, sales planning, sales team development, and market opportunity analysis.
Downing also brings a record of successful new product and technology-based sales strategies. He has developed and executed national sales and strategic account plans and customer retention programs as well as new business opportunities through the development of technology partnerships and platform integrations.
“I am delighted to be joining a team of high energy professionals who are redefining the standards for data quality in mortgage lending and delivering tangible benefits to lenders and investors across the spectrum. I was attracted to Aklero because of their commitment to innovation and the creative solutions they’ve developed to help our clients meet the challenges of a changing marketplace,” Downing said.
Downing has served on the board of directors for the Credit Data Information Association and the Mortgage Advisory Council and has been recognized by that association for his work on the Mortgage Credit Reporting Standards Task Force. He has also been a member of the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) and the Massachusetts Mortgage Bankers Association.
