Chris Vinson is a respected leader in the mortgage industry, known for his ability to turn vision into action and create meaningful, lasting impact. As the founder and CEO of Windsor Mortgage and head of the Mortgage Division at Plains Commerce Bank, Vinson has built a high-performing team that generates over $5.6 billion in annual production—all while prioritizing relationships, innovation, and mentorship. His steady leadership and commitment to helping others succeed have made him a trusted voice and influential figure in today’s evolving market.
Over a 20+ year career, Vinson has evolved from a South Dakota-based mortgage originator to the visionary architect behind Windsor Mortgage, a national platform aligned with Plains Commerce Bank. Under his leadership, Windsor has achieved over $5.6 billion in annual loan originations and consistently holds over 25% of the Sioux Falls market share. His emphasis on broker support, market responsiveness, and scalable infrastructure has propelled Windsor to become a recognized force in wholesale mortgage lending.
In the past 12 months alone, Vinson has doubled down on broker coaching, launched new marketing and warehouse lending initiatives, and expanded his leadership team—all while maintaining award-winning service levels. He’s recognized for his ability to anticipate shifts in market demand ahead of published data, giving his team and broker partners a competitive edge. His program, Coaching with Chris, helps others thrive in a volatile market by sharing real-world stories and practical strategies for survival and growth.
Vinson was inducted into the 2024 Hall of AIME, a testament to his contributions and leadership in the independent mortgage broker community. He is an active supporter and partner with national organizations including NAMB (National Association of Mortgage Brokers), ARIVE, AIME, MBS Highway, and the ABA (American Bankers Association). Through these affiliations, Vinson contributes thought leadership, advocates for broker-centric solutions, and champions innovation across the industry.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t forget the power of asking. Whether it’s asking a question, asking for help, or asking for the opportunity—so much growth starts with simply having the courage to ask. It’s easy to assume the answer is no or that you’re supposed to have it all figured out, but some of the best moments in my career have come from putting the ask out there and being open to what comes next.
Name:
Chris Vinson
Title:
CEO Mortgage Division
Company Name:
Windsor Mortgage, a Division of Plains Commerce Bank
