"Innovation is in everything we do. We've been laser-focused in our business model by staying true to the wholesale channel. But everything we do is with an eye on how we can improve our service… One of our values is challenging the 'why.' And just because we do something a certain way, doesn't mean that there's not a better way to do it."
– Lee Jelenic, Chief Innovation Officer at United Wholesale Mortgage
This week's VentureFuel Visionary is Lee Jelenic, Chief Innovation Officer at United Wholesale Mortgage. UWM holds the top spot as the nation's #1 overall mortgage and purchase lender. Lee oversees Client Experience, Innovation, Government Affairs, and Investor Relations. His journey, from Professional Hockey to Wall Street and now to UWM, is marked by a history of driving significant growth through his dedication to innovation.
Lee leads us in a discussion about embracing being "Productively Uncomfortable," the benefits of venturing into the "Uncomfort Zone," and challenging conventional thinking. The episode also explores the story of UWM's CEO, Mat Ishbia — as he went from a benchwarmer to a billionaire — and how this narrative inspires UWM to embrace opportunities proactively.
Catch our conversation as we delve into assessing innovation’s success and the potential challenges of success itself as a barrier to new growth.
At VentureFuel, we help our clients commercialize innovation to ignite change within their organizations, all through startup collaborations. Contact us to learn more today!
