Leadership - Direct Mortgage Loans

Michael NaylorCo-founder, CEO

410.878.9733

GET TO KNOW MIKE

Mike Naylor co-founded Direct Mortgage Loans (DML) in 2011 with business partner, Ashley Mills. After graduating from the College of Charleston with a Bachelor of Science in Business Communications, Mike accepted an entry-level position for a mortgage company in Maryland. It was on the first day of this role he met his future business partner, Ashley Mills.

Always hungry for success, Mike quickly climbed the corporate ladder from telemarketer to top producer to Vice President of Sales by age 25. In 2007, Mike and Ashley started a branch, under another national lender, with the goal of becoming a full-scale mortgage lender within 5 years. After a few years of growth, and $150M in annual volume, Mike and Ashley discovered there was a better way to serve their clients and their employees. In 2011, DML was launched with a Mission to provide outstanding mortgage solutions and create lifelong relationships. Mike leads through DML’s core values of Proactive Communication, Accountability, Transparency, and a Solution-Focused Positive Attitude.

Mike enjoys coaching branch managers and believes the key to success lies in starting with your personal goals while being clear on what you want out of life. As partner, Mike’s role revolves around DML’s strategic direction, growth opportunities, leadership development, culture, and marketing. Mike knows the challenges faced by today’s loan officers and branch managers. He is committed to DML’s originator-friendly business model and is passionate about equipping sales with everything needed for success – efficient processes, technology, work-life balance, transparency, and more.

In 2017, Mike co-founded the Home Plate Project to help underprivileged children and veterans with the passion to touch more lives in the communities DML serves. Outside of work, Mike enjoys sports, traveling and experiencing life’s adventures with his wife, Erin, and their three daughters.

Ashley MillsCo-founder, President

410.878.9734

GET TO KNOW ASHLEY

In 2003, after graduating from the University of Pittsburgh – Johnstown with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Ashley Mills moved to Baltimore and accepted an entry-level sales position at a local mortgage company. It is in this role that he met his future business partner, Mike Naylor.

Ashley quickly built his foundation for success from hard-work, compassion, and doing what is right for the customer. Humble in nature, yet hungry for success, Ashley and Mike started their entrepreneurial journey in 2007. They opened a branch under another national lender with the goal of becoming a full-scale mortgage lender within 5 years. After a few years, the branch grew to $150M in annual volume. In 2011, Ashley and Mike founded Direct Mortgage Loans with the same values that Ashley found successful from the very beginning: effective, proactive, and respectful communication that fosters teamwork, transparency and accountability to our clients, partners and each other.

Always listening and problem-solving, Ashley’s attention to detail and thoughtfulness have helped Direct Mortgage Loans navigate the dynamic mortgage industry. His characteristics shine through his coaching and strategic decision making. He believes the key to success lies in continuing to provide the best customer service for our clients, while creating a culture that fosters balance and stability for DML’s employees.

In 2017, Ashley co-founded the Home Plate Project to help underprivileged children and veterans. Outside of work, Ashley loves being a dad to his two daughters and spending time with his wife, Alyson, of 15+ years. He’s a big believer in keeping things simple and trying to enjoy the most of every day.

Mary DiMascioChief Administrative Officer

410.891.3968

GET TO KNOW MARY

Mary joined DML in 2013 as Chief Administrative Officer. With over 20 years of experience in the Financial Service Industry, Mary has experience in managing complex organizations with a focus on consumer credit underwriting, service, collections, and project management. She currently oversees the Executive Leadership Team, IT, Facilities, and Human Resources. In her spare time, Mary can be found golfing or traveling.

Stephanie HenkelmanChief Financial Officer

410.878.9730 ext. 112

GET TO KNOW STEPHANIE

Stephanie joined team DML after working in public accounting for CliftonLarsenAllen and various insurance, finance, and service industries. She graduated with a MBA with a specialization in Finance from the University of Baltimore in 2019, passed the CPA exam in May 2016, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Baltimore with a specialization in accounting in 2004. As DML’s Chief Financial Officer, Stephanie is involved in all things financial: from forecasting and budgeting to monthly financial statements, taxes, audit, and payroll. She enjoys being active with her daughter, Waverly – whether that’s hiking locally or taking weekend trips to the beach.

Erin McCarthy Naylor, Esq.Chief Operating Officer

410.878.9730 ext. 133

GET TO KNOW ERIN

Erin joined DML in 2013. She previously worked as the Director of Mortgage Fraud for the State of Maryland with the Office of the Commissioner of Financial Regulation. In that role, she prosecuted mortgage fraud from under a Department of Justice Grant. Prior to that, she served as an Assistant States Attorney in Baltimore City. She attended the University of Maryland for her undergraduate and graduated from the University of Baltimore, School of Law in 2007. As DML’s Chief Operating Officer, Erin is responsible for the management and oversight of the following departments: Disclosure Desk, Processing, Underwriting, Closing, Post-Closing and Compliance. In addition, she enforces compliance policies within the office. Erin is also the lead of the DML Pride Committee which focuses on Employee Recognition, Morale and Community Involvement.

Chris NaylorChief Revenue Officer

410.878.9738

GET TO KNOW CHRIS

Chris has been a vital part of DML since the beginning. He has over 13 years of sales and sales management experience. Chris oversees the Customer Experience and Innovation committee and is a decision-maker in the strategic direction and financials of DML with Partners, Mike Naylor and Ashley Mills. Chris also manages DML’s programs and pricing. Outside of work, Chris can be found traveling, golfing, or testing new recipes in the kitchen.