As president Capital Markets at Fairway Independent Mortgage, Michael Blake is known as the “professor” because of his level of knowledge and passion for his industry. Blake’s ability to take in information on hundreds of programs — all with multiple execution options and consistently determine the best path — is a trait that makes him a stand-out executive.

Blake is a resource not only for Fairway but also for the industry as a whole. When the GSEs, PLS and MSR market participants need market intelligence from a lender on the primary market, Blake is the go-to for information. Because Blake is known for his transparency and accuracy, he is highly sought out by others for his perspective. 

While the last 12–16 months in the capital markets have been chaotic with hundreds of changes, Blake’s greatest qualities, such as his leadership, speed, availability and technical knowledge, have been on display to Fairway’s 10,000 plus teammates and its industry partners. With Blake leading Faiway’s efforts, the company has minimized losses when losses were a certainty, and he has maximized gains by finding opportunities others didn’t see. 

Blake’s balance and focus on maintaining a risk-mitigating hedge strategy has safeguarded the company during the most volatile time. Blake took quick action to minimize margin calls, securing liquidity in MSR sales (when there was none in the market), and played a critical role in establishing a large credit facility in case Fairway was to be under further liquidity pressures.

What has been your secret to success?

“Hard work, determination and a great team are key components to success.”

Name:

Michael Blake

Title:

President Capital Markets

Company Name:

Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation