BREAKOUT SESSION: Financial Management Strategies that Return Profitability

Seth D. Sprague, CMB

Director, Consulting Services, Richey May

With extensive experience in mortgage banking and mortgage servicing, Seth Sprague leads the Mortgage Banking Consulting Services practice at Richey May. A sought-after speaker, he often speaks on liquidity and the overall challenges in the mortgage industry. Sprague joined Richey May from the STRATMOR Group where he was a principal. Prior to joining STRATMOR, he was EVP of Trading and Analytics at Phoenix Capital. Sprague also served as SVP, Servicing Asset Manager at SunTrust Mortgage for more than 10 years, where he developed and led their servicing rights valuation team. His career also includes accounting, analytics and auditing roles at Bank of America, KPMG LLP, and United Financial Inc. Seth holds the designation of Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB) from the MBA.

Michael Fontaine, CMB

Co-President/COO, Plaza Home Mortgage, Inc.

Since 2004, Mike has played a key role in the evolution and success of Plaza Home Mortgage. He shares the responsibilities for the day-to-day operations of the company's businesses and oversees Plaza’s National Correspondent Division. In addition, Plaza’s Finance, Strategic Planning, Capital Markets, Risk and Compliance, Operations, IT, Legal, Marketing, Human Resources and Servicing groups all report to Mike. He is a member of the Freddie Mac Advisory Committee, the California Mortgage Bankers Association's Board of Directors and holds the Certified Mortgage Banker designation from the Mortgage Bankers Association. A Certified Public Accountant, Mike has a Bachelor's degree in Management Science from the University of California, San Diego and a Master's of Science Degree in Accountancy from San Diego State University.

Allison Johnston, CMB

President, Success Mortgage Partners, Inc.

Allison Johnston, a visionary leader with a profound understanding of the mortgage industry, has risen to prominence as a driving force behind Success Mortgage Partners, Inc. (SMP), an Independent Mortgage Bank headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Allison’s journey is marked by a series of remarkable achievements and contributions that have not only propelled her to the presidency of SMP but have also reshaped the landscape of mortgage banking. Allison’s remarkable odyssey in the mortgage sector began in 2013 when she joined the ranks of Success Mortgage Partners. However, her connection to the industry spans over 30 years, amassing a wealth of experience, knowledge, and insight. Allison was bestowed with the prestigious title of President of Success Mortgage Partners in 2019. This appointment underscored her exceptional leadership qualities and her pivotal role in steering the organization toward new horizons of success. A standout achievement in Allison’s journey was her attainment of the Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB) designation in 2015. This accolade demonstrates her expertise and underscores her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. Allison earned her Master’s Degree in Business Management. Allison is also an instructor for the Mortgage Bankers Association and teaches classes regularly. Allison’s influence extends beyond her role at SMP. As the Chairwoman of the State of Michigan Governmental Mortgage Industry Advisory Board, she has played a crucial role in shaping industry policies, demonstrating her advocacy for responsible and effective mortgage practices. Her participation in influential organizations like The Mortgage Collaborative, where she holds a Board Member position, and her past Michigan Mortgage Lenders Association presidency further attest to her standing as a luminary in the field. Allison has received several awards, including the Movers and Shakers, Ambassador Award, and Vic Miller Award.