Since becoming president of Finance of America Reverse in 2015, Kristen Sieffert transformed the company into one of the largest reverse mortgage lenders in the country and led its shift to become a more complete provider of holistic retirement solutions that prioritize relationships with borrowers, lenders and partners. Under Sieffert’s leadership, FAR has reshaped the industry by offering new products as well as sound research, education, financial tools and a human-centered approach to help retirees navigate their retirement journeys. Sieffert has leaned into her core strengths of compassionate, visionary leadership and people-first initiatives over the past year to position FAR as both an industry problem-solver and vital retirement advocate, with impressive results to show for it.
Sieffert evangelized early on that home equity, and reverse mortgages in particular, should be part of the discussion when it comes to a well-balanced retirement roadmap — not an option of last resort. Given the current retirement crisis in America — which has subjected huge swathes of America’s seniors to the prospect of crippling mortgage debt and climbing medical costs in their later years — she knew that a truly groundbreaking solution could be a valuable option for many homeowners in or near retirement who are saddled with mortgage debt.
To meet this need, Sieffert spearheaded the launch of FAR’s new retirement mortgage called EquityAvail earlier this year, a first-of-its-kind offering that allows qualifying homeowners to refinance their conventional mortgage while also reducing their monthly payments. Through her tireless dedication and direction, Sieffert’s landscape-altering vision became a reality in the spring of 2021 and is poised to improve the lives of millions of Americans moving forward.
What has been your secret to success?
“Throughout my 17 years in the retirement solutions industry, I’ve found that successful leadership depends on two main ingredients—prioritizing people and staying curious.”
Name:
Kristen Sieffert
Title:
President
Company Name:
Finance of America Reverse