Waterstone Mortgage Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Waterstone Mortgage has 6 executives leading key functions including finance, information technology, operations, legal, and sales.

Driven by a commitment to customer success, Waterstone Mortgage provides specialized mortgage loans, focusing on delivering accessible financing solutions and fostering long-term homeownership for clients across the United States.

Leadership Roles at Waterstone Mortgage

  • Chief Financial Officer - James Harper
  • Chief Operating Officer - Richard Tucker
  • Chief Information Officer - Brian Wesselhoff
  • Chief Legal Officer - Stephanie Ziebell
  • Chief Sales Officer - Rich H.
  • Senior Vice President - Chief Sales Officer - Richard Harkwell
  • James Harper - Chief Financial Officer

    James Harper, the Chief Financial Officer at Waterstone Mortgage, directs all financial planning, accounting, and capital management activities. Harper oversees the company's fiscal health, ensuring robust financial controls and strategic resource allocation to support growth initiatives. This leadership role involves managing investor relations, optimizing the company's balance sheet, and driving profitability through sound financial strategies. Harper's expertise is critical in navigating the complex financial landscape of the mortgage industry, ensuring compliance with all regulatory financial requirements. The Chief Financial Officer also guides investment decisions and manages risk exposure, safeguarding the company's assets and enhancing shareholder value. By meticulously analyzing market trends and financial performance, Harper provides essential insights that shape the company's overall business strategy and operational efficiency. James Harper's financial acumen is fundamental to Waterstone Mortgage's sustained success and market position.

    Richard Tucker - Chief Operating Officer

    Richard Tucker, the Chief Operating Officer at Waterstone Mortgage, directs daily business operations and optimizes workflow processes across all departments. Tucker is responsible for enhancing operational efficiency, ensuring seamless mortgage origination and servicing, and driving service excellence. This leadership position involves managing cross-functional teams to achieve strategic goals and maintain high standards of productivity. The Chief Operating Officer oversees the execution of business strategies, implements process improvements, and ensures compliance with industry regulations. Tucker's focus is on streamlining operations, reducing costs, and improving the overall customer journey from application to closing. By fostering collaboration and accountability, Richard Tucker ensures that Waterstone Mortgage operates effectively and efficiently. The Chief Operating Officer's commitment to operational excellence underpins the company's ability to deliver reliable and timely mortgage solutions to its clients.

    Brian Wesselhoff - Chief Information Officer

    Brian Wesselhoff, the Chief Information Officer at Waterstone Mortgage, architects and executes the company's technology strategy, ensuring robust and scalable IT infrastructure. Wesselhoff oversees all aspects of information systems, cybersecurity, and digital transformation initiatives, aligning technology solutions with business objectives. This role is pivotal in enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience through innovative technological advancements. The Chief Information Officer manages the development and implementation of software, data management systems, and network security protocols, safeguarding sensitive client and company information. Wesselhoff's leadership drives the adoption of cutting-edge technologies that streamline mortgage processing, improve data analytics capabilities, and support remote workforces. By fostering a culture of technological excellence, Brian Wesselhoff ensures Waterstone Mortgage remains competitive and secure in an evolving digital landscape. The Chief Information Officer's strategic vision is essential for maintaining operational integrity and enabling future innovation.
    Stephanie Ziebell, the Chief Legal Officer at Waterstone Mortgage, provides strategic legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for the organization. Ziebell ensures compliance with federal and state regulations governing the mortgage industry, mitigating legal risks and protecting the company's interests. This critical role involves managing litigation, advising on corporate governance, and developing legal policies and procedures. The Chief Legal Officer works closely with other executives to ensure all business activities adhere to legal standards and ethical practices. Ziebell's expertise is essential in navigating the complex legal landscape of financial services, particularly in mortgage lending. By proactively addressing legal challenges and opportunities, Stephanie Ziebell safeguards the company's reputation and operational integrity. The Chief Legal Officer's guidance is fundamental to maintaining Waterstone Mortgage's commitment to lawful and responsible business conduct.

    Rich H. - Chief Sales Officer

    Rich H., the Chief Sales Officer at Waterstone Mortgage, drives the company's sales strategy and oversees all revenue-generating activities. H. leads the sales teams, focusing on expanding market reach and increasing loan origination volume across the United States. This executive position involves developing and implementing effective sales programs, setting performance targets, and fostering a high-performance sales culture. The Chief Sales Officer works to identify new market opportunities and strengthen relationships with clients and partners. Rich H.'s leadership is instrumental in achieving sales objectives and contributing to the company's overall financial growth. By focusing on customer acquisition and retention, H. ensures Waterstone Mortgage maintains a strong competitive presence in the mortgage market. The Chief Sales Officer's strategic direction is vital for sustained revenue generation and market expansion.
    Rich H.

    Richard Harkwell - Senior Vice President - Chief Sales Officer

    Richard Harkwell, the Senior Vice President - Chief Sales Officer at Waterstone Mortgage, spearheads the company's sales initiatives and market development efforts. Harkwell directs the sales force in executing strategies aimed at increasing market share and driving loan volume nationwide. This senior leadership role involves cultivating strategic partnerships, enhancing sales team performance, and ensuring alignment with corporate objectives. The Senior Vice President - Chief Sales Officer focuses on identifying emerging market trends and adapting sales approaches to meet evolving customer needs. Richard Harkwell's extensive experience in sales leadership is crucial for achieving ambitious revenue targets and expanding Waterstone Mortgage's client base. By championing innovative sales techniques and fostering a client-centric approach, Harkwell significantly contributes to the company's growth and market leadership. The Senior Vice President - Chief Sales Officer's strategic vision guides the sales organization toward sustained success.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Finance

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Waterstone Mortgage Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Waterstone Mortgage?
    Waterstone Mortgage is led by James Harper (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Richard Tucker (Chief Operating Officer) and Brian Wesselhoff (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Waterstone Mortgage’s executive team?
    The executive team of Waterstone Mortgage includes leaders such as James Harper (Chief Financial Officer), Richard Tucker (Chief Operating Officer), Brian Wesselhoff (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Waterstone Mortgage have?
    Waterstone Mortgage has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Waterstone Mortgage’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Waterstone Mortgage includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Legal Officer, Chief Sales Officer.