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LYONS – Randy Wattermann has been hired as chief lending officer with the Center for Rural Affairs.
Wattermann’s background includes consulting with Community Development Finance Institutions, credit unions, and banks to assess risk in lending, provide solutions and strategies, and assist with meeting compliance requirements. He has nonprofit leadership experience, as a longtime member to the Neb. Sustainable Agriculture Society.
Sandra Renner, chief of staff with the Center, said Wattermann’s experience makes him a valuable addition to the Center team.
“Randy's background in supporting lending institutions and his leadership in the small-scale agriculture space are a great match for our growing areas of lending, which include food systems, clean energy, and affordable housing in rural communities,” said Renner. “This added capacity truly strengthens our organization and assists us in continuing to carry out our mission of supporting vibrant rural communities and eliminating barriers to capital access.”
As chief lending officer, Wattermann is responsible for the growth of the Center’s loan programs, including the development of new areas of lending like solar and clean energy, multifamily housing, and food systems such as meat and poultry processors and food and farm businesses.
