Cerita Battles is an inspirational leader with 34 years of experience in the financial industry and 26 years specifically dedicated to the mortgage industry. She created a career path that enables her to pursue her passions, like helping communities of color and low-to-moderate income communities attain and sustain homeownership. She understands that homeownership is one of the biggest determinants of wealth creation and financial stability in our economy, and she uses her position to build strategies, products, programs and governance processes to create industry and leadership visibility and awareness of the barriers that exist on the path to homeownership.  Battles has a gift for speaking and a passion for serving others. The work she does as head of community and affordable lending truly defines her purpose. She is committed to identifying and implementing strategic solutions to help close the homeownership gap, specifically within Black and Hispanic communities across the full income spectrum.

Through this impactful work, Chase is in a position to make a difference in the lives of their customers and communities that have traditionally been underserved, and this commitment is clear from leadership down. A respected leader and pillar within the mortgage industry, Battles represents Chase on several boards and collaboratives, including 2022 Chairwoman of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals, MBA Affordable Housing and DEI Councils, OCC Project Reach, Ability Housing, Inc. and a host of others.

What’s the secret to your success?

To be a good leader, you must motivate and inspire others to do what they never thought they could. Maya Angelou said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did; but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I have maximized my opportunities and gained so much knowledge and inspiration from those who have crossed my path. As leaders, we must be lifelong learners who are always in a position to learn, gather and grow.

Name:

Cerita Battles

Title:

Managing Director, Head of Community and Affordable Lending

Company Name:

Chase Home Lending