KBRA Expands Leadership Team with Key Appointments
KBRA is excited to share significant updates regarding its leadership changes within the Structured Finance division. The recent appointments of Yee Cent Wong and Jack Kahan are part of the firm’s commitment to grow its senior management team amidst expanding market opportunities.
Yee Cent Wong: Leading Analytical Management
In a pivotal role, Yee Cent Wong has been appointed as the Lead Analytical Manager for Structured Finance. This decision underscores KBRA’s dedication to enhancing its analytical capabilities, particularly in Asset-Backed Securities (ABS), Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities (CMBS), Residential Mortgage-Backed Securities (RMBS), and Structured Credit. Yee will coordinate analytical activities and maintain KBRA's leadership in the sector, focusing on delivering informed ratings and developing robust methodologies.
Returning to the U.S. from European Leadership
Yee's return to the United States follows an influential tenure as Co-Head of KBRA’s European operations, based in Dublin. During her time there, she contributed significantly to the growth of KBRA’s rating presence across Europe. Her experience in evaluating commercial real estate loans in CMBS transactions will be instrumental as she steps into her new role in New York.
Jack Kahan: Global Head of ABS and RMBS
Alongside Yee, Jack Kahan has been appointed as the Global Head of ABS and RMBS. With nearly twenty years of dedication to rating agencies, Jack brings a wealth of knowledge to KBRA, where he has served as the Global Head of the RMBS Group for nine years. His leadership has been crucial in fostering a team characterized by extensive experience in the mortgage securitization market.
Building a Renowned Team
Jack’s team has become known for its exceptional ratings and research capabilities across various sectors, including prime and non-Qualified Mortgage (non-QM) products, second liens, and even niche securitizations such as reverse mortgages and mortgage servicing rights. While maintaining his leadership role in RMBS, he will work alongside Edward DeVito and Patrick Gervais, who will manage daily operations, bringing their combined 49 years of experience to the table.
Commitment to Analytical Excellence
Eric Thompson, the Global Head of Structured Finance at KBRA, emphasized the significance of these appointments, stating, “Yee and Jack’s vision and dedication to analytical thought leadership and excellence have been instrumental in the development of KBRA’s first-in-class Structured Finance platform.” Their insight and commitment will undoubtedly enhance KBRA's mission to provide exemplary analysis tailored for investors within the structured finance landscape.
About KBRA
KBRA operates as a full-service credit rating agency, holding registrations in multiple regions including the U.S., the EU, and the UK. The agency is recognized for delivering structured finance ratings throughout Canada, with its ratings being applicable for investors needing regulatory capital across various jurisdictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent appointments did KBRA announce?
KBRA announced the appointment of Yee Cent Wong as Lead Analytical Manager and Jack Kahan as Global Head of ABS and RMBS.
What will Yee Cent Wong oversee at KBRA?
Yee will manage analytical efforts within the Structured Finance division, focusing on enhancing ratings and research methodologies.
What is Jack Kahan's experience in the rating agency field?
Jack has nearly two decades of experience, including nine years as the Global Head of the RMBS Group at KBRA.
How does KBRA support the structured finance marketplace?
KBRA is dedicated to providing best-in-class analysis and ratings that assist investors in navigating the structured finance sector.
Where is KBRA headquartered?
KBRA is based in New York, with significant operations also in Europe.
