Guaranteed Rate Affinity announced on Friday that it has hired Andy Ward as its originating manager in Cottleville, Missouri.
Ward brings a proven track record of success and leadership in the mortgage industry. The 25-year mortgage leader reportedly joined Guaranteed Rate Affinity to align with the company’s technological growth and expansion efforts.
“GRA’s cutting-edge tech stack, powered by proprietary AI, and access to over 2,000 mortgage programs provide an unmatched platform for success,” Ward said in a statement.
“With competitive rates and a strong foundation, I’m thrilled to step into my new role as Originating Manager. I look forward to continuing to guide clients through the home-buying journey, supporting referral partners in growing their businesses, and contributing to the expansion of the GRA brand and my team in 2025.”
Guaranteed Rate Affinity’s leadership also praised Ward for his love for the industry and drive to help customers.
“Andy is a great addition to our region. We are thrilled to welcome him on board,” regional president Jon Stacy said in a statement. “His experience and love for this industry is clear in his attitude and the way he conducts business. We can’t wait to see how he’s going to help us grow this market.”
Before joining his new company, Ward worked for seven years as a branch manager at New American Funding in St. Louis. He also brings mortgage branch leadership experience with organizations such as Wintrust Mortgage, PNC Mortgage and Bank Star Mortgage.
This recent hire underscores Guaranteed Rate Affinity’s drive to expand its leadership team in early 2025. In December, the company appointed Scott Throneberry as its new executive vice president to drive loan officer recruitment. In October, Mark Rawls joined the firm as its North Carolina-based vice president of mortgage lending.
Guaranteed Rate Affinity launched in 2017 as a joint venture between Rate — formerly known as Guaranteed Rate — and Anywhere Real Estate, formerly known as Realogy. Rate holds a 50.1% stake in the company, while Anywhere control 49.9%. The company has funded more than $100 billion in loans since its launch, with 400 branches across all 50 states and Washington, D.C.
