Amara Sesay

47 Wilkinson Street
Freetown, Western Area | +232 76 445 892
amara.sesay@email.com | linkedin.com/in/amarasesay

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Results-driven Loan Officer with over 8 years of experience in residential and commercial lending, specializing in loan origination, underwriting, and compliance. Proven track record of exceeding sales targets while maintaining exceptional customer service standards and regulatory adherence. Skilled in managing complex loan portfolios, streamlining funding processes, and building lasting client relationships. Committed to delivering tailored financial solutions that meet diverse homeowner needs.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Loan Officer
Meridian Financial Services, Freetown
March 2021 – Present

• Originate and process an average of 25-30 residential mortgage loans monthly, generating over $4.5M in loan volume annually
• Conduct comprehensive financial analysis and customer decisioning to determine appropriate loan products, including conventional, FHA, VA, and refinance options
• Collaborate with underwriting teams to ensure timely loan approval and funding, maintaining a 92% approval rate
• Manage end-to-end loan process from application through settlement, ensuring full compliance with federal and state lending regulations
• Develop and maintain robust sales pipeline through employee referrals, networking, and community outreach, resulting in 35% repeat and referral business
• Provide expert guidance on loan modifications and loss mitigation strategies for clients facing financial hardship
• Prepare and review legal documents and contracts to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance

Senior Loan Processor
Capital Trust Bank, Freetown
June 2018 – February 2021

• Processed 40+ loan applications monthly, coordinating between loan officers, underwriters, and clients to expedite closings
• Verified borrower documentation, income statements, and credit reports to ensure loan package completeness
• Managed cash disbursement procedures and tracked funding timelines, reducing average closing time by 18%
• Trained and coached 5 junior processors on loan administration best practices and compliance requirements
• Implemented quality control measures that decreased processing errors by 25%
• Assisted with refinance transactions and communicated complex loan terms to homeowners in clear, accessible language

Loan Processor
Atlantic Financial Group, Freetown
August 2016 – May 2018

• Supported loan officers by preparing loan files for underwriting review and ensuring documentation accuracy
• Coordinated with title companies, appraisers, and insurance providers to facilitate smooth settlement processes
• Maintained detailed records of loan status and communicated updates to clients and internal stakeholders
• Assisted in legal document preparation including promissory notes, deeds of trust, and disclosure statements
• Contributed to team achievement of 95% customer satisfaction rating through responsive service and clear communication

Customer Service Representative
Sierra Leone Banking Corporation, Freetown
January 2015 – July 2016

• Provided front-line support to banking customers, addressing inquiries related to accounts, loans, and financial products
• Identified sales opportunities and referred qualified customers to appropriate loan officers and financial advisors
• Resolved customer concerns efficiently while maintaining strict adherence to bank policies and compliance standards
• Processed routine transactions and maintained accurate records in customer management systems

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science in Finance
Fourah Bay College, Freetown
Graduated: May 2014

Associate of Arts in Business Administration
Institute of Public Administration and Management, Freetown
Graduated: May 2012

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES

• NMLS Licensed Loan Originator – License #SL847392
• Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB) – In Progress

CORE COMPETENCIES

Loan Origination | Underwriting | Refinance | Loan Modifications | Loss Mitigation | Compliance & Regulatory Knowledge | Customer Service | Sales & Business Development | Legal Document Preparation | Contract Review | Cash Disbursement | Settlement Coordination | Customer Decisioning | Sales Pipeline Management | Employee Referral Programs | Job Coaching & Training

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Proficient in Encompass, Calyx Point, and DU/LP automated underwriting systems
• Active member of Freetown Association of Mortgage Professionals
• Volunteer financial literacy coach for first-time homebuyers through community programs