Q: How would you describe your role as Senior Director of Construction within Lending Services?
Fun and challenging—I get to stay connected to my background in the construction industry, overseeing the proper release of construction funds across our lending portfolio. My role is largely centered on risk mitigation, but it’s also very relationship-driven. I work closely with sponsors, contractors, and internal teams to ensure projects stay on track while providing a strong customer experience.
Having both field experience and a finance background allows me to approach each project with balance—understanding the realities of construction while maintaining the discipline required to protect investor capital.
Q: What originally drew you to DLP Capital, and what has kept you here?
What drew me in was the ability to leverage my finance and real estate education while staying connected to construction—without being on-site five days a week. That combination is rare. I can evaluate projects through both a technical and financial lens, which allows me to mitigate risk while still approaching conversations with sponsors from a place of understanding.
In many markets, the options are either extremely expensive homes or low-quality housing that no one should have to live in. Being part of a mission that helps close that gap is incredibly meaningful to me, and I’m grateful to play a role in it.
What’s kept me here is the people.
“Providing safe, attainable workforce housing is not only honorable–it's essential.”
The wealth of knowledge across the organization cannot be understated. Working alongside colleagues, and even friends, who genuinely care about doing things the right way makes DLP a special place to be.
Q: What differentiates DLP’s approach to construction oversight from others in the industry?
Launching and managing our site inspection platform has been a major milestone. We don’t outsource accountability. While we use qualified third-party construction monitoring services, it’s essential that DLP team members physically visit every active construction project at least once every 90 days.
These site visits ensure that reported progress is accurate and that we’re prudently releasing construction dollars. That visibility adds another layer of accountability and reinforces our commitment to disciplined capital stewardship across the portfolio.
Q: How do you view your role in protecting investor capital throughout the construction lifecycle?
Balancing thoroughness with speed in the draw process is always a challenge. My responsibility is to make sure progress is real—not assumed. At DLP, not a single dollar leaves our accounts without visual verification that the work has been completed, value has been added to our collateral, documentation is in order, and the property title is clean.
A big part of success is setting expectations upfront—making sure sponsors understand documentation requirements and funding timelines before closing. Speed matters, but accuracy matters more. When those two are aligned, that clarity allows us to move quickly and prevent unnecessary delays, without compromising on protecting our investors.
Q: In your own words, what does “Building Thriving Communities” mean in the context of your work?
It’s about seeing something come from nothing. Many of the projects we finance start as raw land and eventually become housing for working families—places where people build their lives. Knowing that these communities offer affordable rent for the average American and help address the country’s workforce housing needs gives me a real sense of pride.
Building Thriving Communities also means building relationships. Long-term partnerships with sponsors built through consistent customer service, transparency, and follow-through lead to repeat business, which helps us continue driving our mission at scale.
Q: When you walk a finished site, what stands out most about the real-world impact of your work?
Seeing the school bus pull up. It’s a powerful reminder that we’re not just financing buildings—it’s no longer a project or a draw schedule—we’re helping build Thriving Communities where families live, grow, and make memories. Knowing we made that impact is incredibly rewarding.
Q: What leadership principles guide your day-to-day decision-making in a risk-focused role?
Treat everyone equally and meet people where they are. Everyone you meet knows something you don’t, and recognizing that opens the door to better relationships and better decisions. When people feel respected and heard, they’re far more receptive to collaboration.
I also believe leadership means being present—positivity and genuine care go a long way. Workloads can get heavy, and maintaining a positive mindset sets the tone for the entire team. I also believe in getting into the weeds when needed—sharing the burden shows people they’re not alone. Understanding what drives each team member, celebrating their milestones, and caring about their lives outside of work builds trust. When people feel valued, they naturally push harder toward shared goals.
Q: What advice would you give to someone aspiring to grow into a leadership role?
Ask questions early and often, take notes, and never be afraid to admit that you don’t know something. Dig in until you truly understand it, then keep refining your process. Treat everyone equally—God created us all equal—you’ll build credibility faster than authority ever will.
