CHLA Co-founder And First President Passes Away

The Community Home Lenders of America (CHLA) released the following statements in response to the passing yesterday of Bill Giambrone, former CEO of Platinum Home Mortgage and one of the founders and the first President of the CHLA.

Giambrone co-founded Platinum Home Mortgage in 1993 with his brother, Michael Giambrone. The Illinois-based company was acquired by Planet Home Lending in June 2023. At its time of acquisition, Platinum had 22 branches and 79 active loan officers, according to Modex. 

"On behalf of everyone at CHLA, we are in mourning today over the passing of Bill Giambrone, a founder and the first President of CHLA," said Scott Olson, executive director of CHLA. "Bill filled the room with his intelligence and boundless energy and I will miss him dearly."

Giambrone founded CHLA in 2010 alongside Don Calcaterra, Jr. and David Wind. 

Current CHLA President Taylor Stork issued the following statement: “Bill was the driving force behind the creation of CHLA and its mission of advocating for small and mid-sized IMBs and we strive to carry that legacy forward.”

Calcaterra, Jr. commented, "Bill, first and foremost, was a friend to all, providing a helping hand wherever needed. He worked tirelessly on behalf of community-based lenders, ensuring we have a 'seat at the table' when Washington re-shapes the industry. Bill’s collegial, jovial nature, insight, and passion for community lending will live on through the organization he was instrumental in creating, the Community Home Lenders of America."

Wind added, "Bill Giambrone was irrepressible, a good friend, and a powerful advocate for independent mortgage bankers across the nation. I was privileged to work with him and I am proud of what we have been able to achieve at CHLA. He will be missed dearly."