Kevin Parra is an industry veteran with more than 35 years of experience in all facets of mortgage banking. He co-founded Plaza in 2000 and led it through the mortgage crisis and global recession.
In addition to his leadership role at Plaza, Parra has served on Fannie Mae’s Customer Advisory Board and on the Board of Directors of the California Mortgage Bankers Association.
Under Parra’s leadership, Plaza has grown to be a leader in third-party originations, offering a full range of GSE, Government including FHA, VA and USDA, non-conforming, including non-QM, renovation and reverse mortgage programs. This year, Plaza is on track to originate $10 billion in mortgages.
Over the past 12 months, Parra has played an integral role in the overall strategic direction of the company, spearheaded technology initiatives, rebranded the company and overseen the development and launch of several new loan programs, products and initiatives.
Parra is passionate about giving back to the community and has instilled this belief into the corporate culture of Plaza, donating more than $500,000 to charities since the founding of the company.
Plaza has been active with a number of charities over the years, including hurricane relief for the American Red Cross, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and with the San Diego affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.
Last year, the company donated a percentage of its overall October loan volume to Komen San Diego, totaling $41,000 and plans to do so again this year.
What has been your secret to success?
“I always try to keep in mind that what we do is so important – we help people get into their homes, which isn’t just one of the biggest financial transactions of people’s lives, but also what they dream about. I am so proud to be a part of that.”
