Lending Team Manager

About AscentAscent Developer Solutions is a leading private lending platform, serving real estate developers nationwide in the acquisition, renovation, and construction of residential real estate. Founded by a leadership team with a deep understanding and personal experience in virtually every facet of real estate development, Ascent is uniquely positioned to create custom, innovative lending solutions for a variety of real estate development business strategies.The RoleThe Lending Team Manager is responsible for leading a team of lending professionals while actively overseeing loan structuring, pipeline execution, and borrower engagement. This role sits at the intersection of sales leadership, credit oversight, and operational execution, ensuring deals are structured creatively yet prudently, with a strong credit-first mindset.Key ResponsibilitiesTeam Leadership & Pipeline OversightLead, coach, and develop a team of lending professionals to achieve and exceed production targetsBe assigned specific Loan Officer (LO) pods and oversee pipeline workflow, prioritization, and executionMonitor pipeline health and ensure deals progress efficiently from application through fundingIdentify bottlenecks and manage escalations, presenting issues to Credit Operations and Credit as neededLoan Structuring & Deal ExecutionTake ownership of loan structuring in partnership with the sales team, leveraging market knowledge and creativity while maintaining a credit-first mentalityGuide originators on structuring complex transactions and navigating borrower scenariosEnsure all deals align with Ascent's credit standards and overall risk frameworkCredit Oversight & ApprovalsReview loan scenarios and provide recommendations on embedded loan extensions to SVP – CreditPartner closely with Credit and Underwriting teams to ensure disciplined evaluation and executionAssist in resolving exception requests and risk considerationsBorrower & Sponsor EngagementParticipate in borrower onboarding calls and ongoing construction calls with sponsorsSupport relationship management strategy across the lifecycle of the loanOversee extension and covenant-related outreach to sponsors in coordination with Relationship ManagersCross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with underwriting, processing, capital markets, and servicing teamsEnsure alignment across departments to drive efficient deal execution and strong borrower experienceStrategy & ReportingTrack team performance, pipeline metrics, and market trendsContribute to lending strategy, product development, and process improvementsUse data and feedback loops to optimize team productivity and outcomesQualifications7+ years of experience in real estate lending (bridge, construction, or private credit preferred)2–5+ years of leadership or team management experienceStrong expertise in loan structuring, credit analysis, and real estate financeProven ability to manage pipelines and drive loan productionExcellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skillsAbility to operate effectively in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environmentThe Work EnvironmentThis role works on-site from Ascent's Encino office, Monday - Thursday (Fridays are work-from-home).Full-time, 40 hours per week; must be available for occasional overtime.Some nights and weekends required.Salary Range$185,000 - $225,000 with 25% bonus targetOur BenefitsWe offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and work-life balance. Our benefits include five health plans, two dental plans, health savings and flexible spending accounts, vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, and other optional benefits from which to choose.Our PledgeWe pledge to be fair and considerate in hiring and promoting individuals, ensuring everyone can contribute their fullest potential regardless of background, identity, or personal circumstances. By promoting equal opportunity, we not only enhance our workplace but also contribute to a more just and equitable society. At Ascent, we stand united in building a community where everyone is empowered to succeed. Thank you for joining us on our journey towards a more inclusive future.