
Director Mortgage Underwriting and Risk Mgmt
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Denise E. Jernigan is a seasoned and strategic leader with over 20 years of extensive experience in loan operations management, underwriting standards, risk management, and quality control within the mortgage and financial services industry. Based in Grand Prairie, TX, Denise has demonstrated a strong ability to lead high-performing teams, drive process improvements, and implement innovative solutions that enhance organizational performance and mitigate risk.
Throughout her career at Fannie Mae, Denise has held progressive leadership roles, including Director of Underwriting Standards, where she has successfully managed underwriting operations, optimized resource allocation, and spearheaded initiatives that significantly reduced credit losses and improved training effectiveness by over 300%. She is recognized for developing comprehensive frameworks such as the National Underwriting Center’s anti-predatory lending process and advancing fraud detection capabilities through staff certification and quality control enhancements.
Denise’s expertise spans mortgage underwriting, portfolio management, fraud detection, risk assessment, and employee development. She excels in building collaborative relationships with stakeholders and strategic partners to foster a culture of teamwork and continuous improvement. Her background is further strengthened by an MBA in Project Management and certifications including Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE).
Known for her visionary approach and exceptional communication skills, Denise is a trusted advisor and dynamic organizational leader committed to driving excellence, compliance, and innovation in the mortgage industry.