Lancaster Pollard has hired Martin Kent to serve as the firm’s new chief credit officer. Kent, most recently the director of multifamily credit/underwriting for Fannie Mae’s seniors housing programs, will provide credit oversight for all the firm’s banking activities.

During his 11 years with Fannie Mae, Kent oversaw both the seniors and affordable housing credit functions as a risk manager and ultimately as director. In those roles, he structured and underwrote numerous loans and trained and managed underwriters. In addition, he reviewed and updated credit policies for Fannie Mae’s Delegated Underwriting & Servicing (DUS®) Guide and approved loans of up to $250 million.

“Marty and his wealth of knowledge will be a tremendous addition to our firm, particularly for our agency and at-risk lending and investing platforms,” said Lancaster Pollard CEO Nick Gesue. “His great perspective and impressive background will further enhance our ability to uphold the highest credit standards.”

Kent, who will be based in Columbus, has nearly three decades of experience in credit policy. Prior to joining Fannie Mae, he spent 18 years in commercial banking, both at PNC Bank and at Bank of America, as a credit officer for various segments of real estate finance.

“Lancaster Pollard is an exciting company that is expanding its already robust platform of comprehensive financing solutions,” said Kent. “I’m thrilled to be joining such an ambitious, entrepreneurial organization with a sterling reputation among its clients.”

Kent earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Maryland in political science. Prior to that, he was a staff sergeant in the U.S. Air Force for six years.

Lancaster Pollard helps health care, senior living and housing providers expand and improve their services by delivering a full range of investment banking, mortgage banking, private equity, balance sheet financing and M&A advisory services.