Managing Director (Originations)

Company: Sahara Investment Group Location: [Location] TBD- Job Type: Full-Time Location: Las Vegas, NV, Boise, ID, Utah About the Firm: Sahara Investment Group (“SIG” or the “Firm”) is a direct lender in commercial real estate, leveraging its local market knowledge and institutional competencies to provide flexible, fast and creative financing solutions to its borrowers. Based in Las Vegas, NV, the Firm targets investment opportunities across all real estate product types within select markets in the Southwest and Mountain West States. We believe the success of our approach is rooted in our team’s proven skillset, an empowering company culture, differentiation in our target markets, the ability to think like principals and a respect for the entrepreneurs that we serve. Sahara Investment Group is the investment arm of a broader integrated company and invests out of a discretionary fund structure. Its sister company, CORE Advisory Partners, provides strategic advisory and capital markets services to family offices, real estate developers and other investors in its target markets. We believe that SIG benefits from this broader platform through shared knowledge, investment opportunities and greater human capital. About the Position: As the Managing Director (Originations), you will lead the team’s originations effort, working to source underwrite and close first lien mortgage loans, mezzanine financing, and related investments that align with the Firm’s investment mandate. You will be responsible for leading and overseeing the team and process, driving the company's origination strategy, cultivating strong industry relationships and elevating the Firm’s reputation through thought leadership in the market. SIG recently completed its first fund and is in the process of raising Fund II with an expected first close in Q4 2023 and a focus on lending in NV, UT, ID, AZ, TX and NM. The Managing Director (Originations) will play a critical role in shaping the future of the Firm, building and growing the platform through this investment vehicle and others in the future. Qualifications: A bachelor's degree in business, real estate, finance, or a related field preferred. Comprehensive understanding and experience as a senior leader in origination, lending, or related roles within the commercial real estate industry, with a strong understanding of various property types (10 years of experience and $200M of prior originations preferred). Strong relationships with borrowers, commercial and investment banks, real estate brokers, real estate owners, developers, third party real estate professional service companies, finance companies and investors Expertise and track record in UT, ID, AZ, TX, NV and/or NM (existing borrower and market relationships preferred). Strong credit, structuring, and underwriting experience in commercial real estate Proven ability to take on material responsibility and accountability for transaction underwriting, asset management and credit outcomes. Experience negotiating loan agreements, Agreement Among Lenders and equity-related documentation. Strong leadership and team management skills. Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building abilities. In-depth knowledge of financial products, market dynamics, and risk management. Strategic thinker with a results-oriented mindset. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and competitive environment. Well-developed and professional interpersonal skills; strong attention to detail, ability to interact effectively with people. Why Join Us: Opportunity to be a critical senior leader of a growing organization. Competitive compensation and benefits package with upside tied to performance. Culture that empowers the team to take on new challenges with the support of the Firm. Opportunity to help shape an enduring financial institution in the markets we serve. A platform to be creative, grow professionally, broaden relationships and identify greater business opportunity. Benefit from shared resources and insights across the Firms other business lines. Key Responsibilities Lead Originations Originate, underwrite, structure and close first lien mortgage loans, mezzanine financing, and related investments that fit the Firm’s investment mandate. Lead the team to ensure successful execution of transactions. Identify and cultivate relationships with borrowers, commercial and investment banks, real estate brokers, real estate owners, developers, third party real estate professional service companies, finance companies and investors. Use strong analytical skills to evaluate and vet loan opportunities through property analysis, financial market analysis, site visits, evaluation of strengths/weaknesses and exit/repayment strategies. Monitor micro/macro commercial real estate market conditions to inform your investment perspective. Collaborate with legal counsel to draft, review, and negotiate contracts and agreements with borrowers, vendors, and partners. Team Management & Development Provide strong leadership, mentorship, and guidance, setting a positive example that aligns with the company’s values, culture, and goals. Conduct regular performance reviews, assess individual and team performance, and provide constructive coaching, feedback and recognition. Strategic Leadership Develop and execute the companys short-term and long-term strategic plans in alignment with the overall business objectives. Continuously monitor and identify market trends, competitive landscape, and emerging opportunities to inform strategic decisions and capitalize on growth potential. Regularly assess the Firm’s systems and processes, offering solutions and furthering a culture of constant improvement. Uphold and promote high ethical standards and professional conduct within the firm and among team members. Recruiting & Industry Involvement Participate in the development and recruitment process to attract and retain top talent. Publicly represent the firm, effectively showcasing its capabilities to a broader audience. Identify potential business partners, service providers, and collaborators within the real estate ecosystem. Elevate both yourself and the Firm’s reputation as thought leaders by attending key conferences, speaking at industry events, contributing articles, and participating in panel discussions within the industry. Reporting & Communication Participate in regular meetings with executive leadership and ownership, providing insights into firm performance and market trends. Contribute insights that inform asset management / portfolio management strategy and external investor reporting.