Randy Wattermann, chief lending officer, [email protected] or 402.687.2100, ext. 1012; or Rhea Landholm, communications manager, [email protected] or 402.687.2100, ext. 1025
LYONS, NEBRASKA – Randy Wattermann, of Lyons, has been hired to serve 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, serving as a longtime member and adviser to the Nebraska 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.
“Joining the Center team has given me the fantastic opportunity to combine my vocational skills like lending, business development, and leadership with my avocation and lifetime love of agriculture,” Wattermann said.
Wattermann is based out of the Center’s main office in Lyons. Reach him at [email protected] or 402.687.2100, ext. 1012.
