MBA Reshuffling Government Affairs Duties

The Mortgage Bankers Association is in the midst of reshaping its government affairs duties, and plans to hire a new senior vice president to oversee what it calls "advocacy." The new title has yet to be cast in stone, but MBA has hired the search firm of Lochlin Partners, Washington, to assist it in finding someone with legislative and policy experience. Steve O'Connor, who currently serves as senior vice president of government affairs, will take over as SVP of public policy and industry relations. A spokesman for the trade group said Mr. O'Connor and the new hire will have duties that overlap to a certain degree. Over the next two years Congress likely will decide the fate of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, a decision that will have a major impact on residential lenders. During his career, Mr. O'Connor has worked in government affairs for the National Association of Realtors and Freddie Mac.