Company veterans step into new positions
The Mortgage Bankers Association has promoted two of its executives to new roles – Joel Kan (pictured left) as deputy chief economist and Heather Messam (pictured right) as vice president and controller.
In his new role, Kan will have direct oversight of MBA’s macroeconomic and housing market forecasts and oversee the production of MBA’s industry surveys, including the Weekly Applications Survey, Builder Application Survey, and the Mortgage Credit Availability Index. He’ll also continue his responsibilities of analyzing key data trends in the real estate finance industry.
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Kan has been with MBA for more than 16 years and has held various positions. Prior to his promotion, he served as associate vice president of economic and industry forecasting.
“Over the past several years, Joel has taken on an increased role at MBA conferences and other industry events, providing instrumental analysis and commentary to members and consumers on real-time data and trends,” said MBA chief economist Mike Fratantoni. “His keen sense of what’s happening in the mortgage market has made him an invaluable asset to our research team. Furthermore, Joel has been a go-to source for national and real estate trade media, regularly sharing trusted insights on what’s happening in the industry and the broader economy.
Also moving up the ranks is Messam, who will now manage the accounting and financial operations of MBA and its five subsidiaries. As the controller, she will also prepare briefing materials for MBA’s Audit and Investment Committees and its board of directors, and will serve as treasurer for the Mortgage Industry Standards Maintenance Organization (MISMO).
Messam joined the trade association in 2001. She most recently served as associate vice president and controller.
“Heather is a consummate accounting professional who has delivered top-notch expertise and dedicated customer service on behalf of MBA and its members for more than two decades,” said Lisa Haynes, chief financial officer and diversity & inclusion officer at MBA. “Her meticulous attention to detail, passion for her craft, and superior project management skills will serve her well in her expanded – and much deserved – new role.”
