Senior Director, Core Market Operations - Direct Division

Senior Director, Core Market Operations – Direct Division

Posted 5 days ago. Be among the first 25 applicants.

First American’s Direct division provides comprehensive title insurance protection and professional settlement services for real estate purchases, refinances and equity loans. Since 1889, First American (NYSE: FAF) has held an unwavering belief in its people. We are passionate about fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered to be innovative and reach their full potential. Our inclusive, people‑first culture has earned us numerous accolades, including being named to the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® list for ten consecutive years.

The Senior Director, Core Market Operations manages revenue generation and operations for multiple county operations in a state or broadly defined area where title operations and escrow transactions are conducted. This role oversees title and escrow operations, ensures adherence to First American’s policies and industry regulations, and drives operational excellence across all locations.

• Lead regional title and escrow operations across multiple offices, ensuring high‑quality service delivery and process consistency.
• Maintain compliance with company standards, regulatory requirements, and operational best practices.
• Identify opportunities to optimize workflows, improve productivity, and enhance service quality.

• Develop and execute operational strategies that support Division goals, scalability, and market development.
• Oversee and strengthen core markets, typically generating less than $30M in annual revenue but designated as foundational or strategic.
• Partner with Sales leadership to support market growth initiatives, customer experience expectations, and performance alignment.

• Provide leadership, coaching, and development for Directors, Area Managers, Branch Managers, and multi‑office operational teams.
• Manage workforce planning, staffing, performance evaluations, and succession planning.
• Foster a culture aligned with First American’s values, emphasizing accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Monitor and analyze operational KPIs, financial performance, and service‑level metrics to ensure achievement of business goals.
• Lead the adoption and implementation of new systems, processes, and technologies to support operational effectiveness.
• Act as the key operational decision‑maker within the region, proactively addressing issues and identifying opportunities.

• Operational Excellence & Execution – Demonstrates deep knowledge of title and escrow operations, risk mitigation, compliance, and regulatory awareness; drives efficiencies through process improvements.
• Strategic Thinking – Translates Division goals into actionable operational plans that support growth and long‑term scalability; anticipates market trends and operational needs.
• Leadership & Talent Development – Builds and leads high‑performing teams through coaching, mentoring, and effective performance management.
• Collaboration & Influence – Partners effectively across Sales, Finance, HR, Compliance, and other support functions; builds strong relationships to align operational priorities.
• Business & Financial Acumen – Understands key financial metrics and operational drivers that impact profitability and productivity; uses data to make informed decisions and optimize regional performance.
• Change Leadership – Guides teams through organizational, technological, and process‑related changes; promotes adaptability and resilience.

• Extensive experience in title and escrow operations with a deep understanding of industry workflows and regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrated success leading multi‑site or regional operations.
• Experience in operational strategy, process optimization, and performance management.
• Strong leadership skills with proven ability to coach, develop, and manage teams.
• Effective communicator with strong relationship‑building and collaboration skills.
• Ability to interpret financial and operational data to support business decisions.

We embrace individuality, support it, and thrive on it. Our People‑First Culture celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion. First American is an equal‑opportunity employer. Based on eligibility, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO/paid sick leave, and an employee stock purchase plan.