Chicago-based special servicer Fay Servicing is hiring mortgage professionals in the greater Chicago area as part of a new hiring initiative.

The firm attributes its hiring spree to dramatic growth in 2012 and in the first-quarter of 2013.

The servicer recently opened a second office in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill., and expects to grow its employee base to 200 staff members by year’s end.

“We value candidates with deep backgrounds in mortgage origination because they typically have a powerful combination of mortgage intelligence and interpersonal skills necessary to connect with distressed borrowers, enabling us to leverage stronger borrower relationships and reach optimal loan resolutions,” said Ed Fay, chief executive officer of Fay Servicing.