In college, Caroline Dennis studied corporate finance, but she never expected that her undergraduate degree would parlay into a full-time career in the mortgage industry.
“Before getting into the field, I didn’t have a clue what it entailed,” she says.
When an opportunity arose for Dennis to work as a receptionist at a small brokerage firm, she thought the role could complement her academic experience.
Three weeks in, a loan processor left the company and the owner asked Dennis if she wanted to learn more about the finance industry. She jumped at the chance to deepen her knowledge, and her newfound insight shaped the trajectory of her personal and professional goals.
“Embracing the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the business was rewarding—so much so that I eventually cofounded my own mortgage company with a business partner,” she says.
As time passed, Dennis decided to transition from wholesale mortgage to the retail sector, where she gained first-hand experience at major banking institutions. This career pivot provided numerous learning and professional development opportunities, which led to a variety of roles, including mortgage loan originator, processor, and closer. With these experiences firmly tucked under her belt, Dennis was able to secure managerial positions—a space she’s adeptly navigated for the past 15 years.
Today, Dennis is an underwriting manager at Taylor Morrison Home Funding (TMHF), a preferred mortgage lender for production home builders.
“My entire career is a testament to my resilience, perseverance, and dedication,” she says. “Along the way, my career choices allowed me to play to my strengths of being service-oriented, intuitive, a collaborative communicator, and a leader.”
Here, Dennis shares what she’s responsible for in her role, why she’s dedicated to teaching financial literacy to marginalized communities, and how Taylor Morrison Home Funding has supported her passion projects.
After working at large banks for more than 10 years, what made you decide to pivot to Taylor Morrison Home Funding?
The passing of my father was a poignant moment in my life, and I wasn’t prepared to travel the rest of this journey without him. He was my friend and my biggest supporter and was always nudging me to expand my thinking, experiences, and impact. During his final days, he encouraged me to be true to myself and never take anything for granted. After his death, I decided I needed a change.
After a few weeks of reflection, I received a call from TMHF about an open manager position. I wasn’t sure what I was looking for in my next chapter, but I was reminded of a proverb that says, “Never be afraid to walk away from a table that no longer serves you.” I had enjoyed my experiences up until that point, but I evolved, and I knew my season in that space was over.
What are you responsible for as an underwriting manager?
As an underwriting manager, my role includes pipeline and people management to ensure the efficient progression of loans through our process. I like to refer to myself as a problem-solving specialist. Most importantly, I act as an advocate for both my team members and our customers. Behind each loan lives the story of an individual or a family, and we must uncover and assess the associated risks.
Despite the common perception of underwriters as being shrouded “behind a steel curtain,” we’re empathetic human beings striving to balance accuracy to safeguard our company’s interests, support the economy, and provide families with homeownership opportunities, whether they’re first-time buyers, moving up, or investing in properties.
What skills are necessary to succeed in your role?
In my opinion, emotional intelligence is crucial for anyone in a management or leadership position. Understanding your own emotions and attitudes is essential for effectively interacting with, managing, directing, or leading individuals with diverse personalities and perspectives. It’s equally important to possess grace, empathy, and a genuine desire to support your coworkers.
Being a team player, a problem solver, and a great communicator are also key strengths, in addition to being detailed and process-oriented.
Beyond your day-to-day role, in what ways have you become an active Taylor Morrison Home Funding employee? Why is this work meaningful, and what specific impact has it had?
I’ve been involved in several initiatives at TMHF. I serve as a committee member for our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging initiative, which holds special significance for me. It’s a passion project, specifically because I understand the lack of diversity in the industry. I understand the feelings of imposter syndrome, and I also know how important it is to give power to your voice in an authentic manner. I can help shape the conversation by using my voice.
Additionally, I serve as a champion for Standing Ovation, one of our in-house employee recognition programs. Ensuring that people feel valued and seen is vital for the morale and sustainability of the organization.
I also participate in our community-sponsored events. All of these allow me to be in the service of others, which is a part of my DNA.
Lastly, as a member of our credit committee team, I can actively contribute to policy changes and product integration, giving me a front-row seat to the direction and expansion of the company.
Tell us about the nonprofit NuJourney Foundation, Inc. that you founded. What is the organization’s mission, and how is it an extension of the work you’ve done throughout your career?
During my time in the financial services industry, I’ve noticed a lack of diversity and a disproportionate number of resources—particularly concerning financial education—in underserved communities. I decided that I wanted to make an impactful influence. The best way to do that was to take everything I’d learned over the years, along with my gifts and talents, and give back to underserved communities.
In 2021, I started teaching financial literacy courses via Zoom. Now we’re a full-fledged 5013c organization dedicated to promoting financial education and entrepreneurship in underserved communities. We hope to cultivate financially healthy individuals and families, who then build financially sustainable businesses in thriving communities.
Our organization is dedicated to the pillars of education, recruitment, and investment. We have five programs geared to youth, college students, and adults that help impact their financial and entrepreneurial endeavors. Currently, we’re partnering with the local Boys and Girls Club, along with a few local community councils and other nonprofits.
This endeavor is my means of giving back. I can leverage the best of my abilities to assist others, and I’m grateful for the grace I receive every day.
How has Taylor Morrison Home Funding supported you in your outside interests?
I've been granted the freedom and encouragement to pursue my passions outside of work, particularly from my current manager. TMHF’s commitment has been special and evident through their partnership with the TM Foundation as well as their endorsement of Nujourney’s participation in their national Build Joy campaign. We received a micro-grant to enhance our educational efforts, and it’s this type of support that allows me and other team members to foster a sense of pride in working for an organization that understands the need to nurture outside passions.
Additionally, late last year, I published my first book, Take the Journey: The Powerful Steps to Owning Your Story. I didn’t tell anyone I was writing it, but the response from my TMHF family was amazing, from purchasing the book to sharing it on social media to giving me feedback and asking for autographs.
I appreciate how TMHF has enabled me to leverage my platform and external passions to support the organization’s causes and goals. The organization and my manager understand that my identity isn’t confined to my job responsibilities—it extends to my diverse interests. Their encouragement, support, and endorsement are commendable.
What advice do you have for someone who wants to make a career pivot (to a different role or type of company) and isn’t sure how to take the first step?
The best advice I can give if you’re considering a career or company change is that it’s essential to start by assessing your current situation and your specific goals. Evaluate whether your current position aligns with what you’re seeking.
If it doesn’t, consider investing in yourself. Pursue what brings you joy, resonates with your purpose, and where you believe you can make a significant impact. It’s natural to feel fear or apprehension, but remember that not taking risks means missing out on opportunities. One chance is all it takes to transform your life.
You have an unexpected day off from work—how would you spend it?
I’d likely spend time with my niece and nephews, catch up on Netflix shows, get a massage, or unwind at home.