At Berkadia, our success is built upon the talent and hard work of a broad, diversely skilled team. From graphic designers to loan closing specialists to product designers, each of our people brings a unique background, perspective and expertise. Their work allows Berkadia to remain a leader in the commercial real estate industry.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Mark Durovka, AVP – Servicing Portfolio Manager, who maintains and reviews servicing data, executing data validity reports and various other monthly and quarterly corporate reports, to learn more about what brought Mark to Berkadia and his vision for the future.
What part of your role are you most passionate about?
At Berkadia, I maintain and review the servicing data with an emphasis on our Life Company Servicing Group by creating and monitoring various Data Validity Reports. I enjoy creating reports that help assist various departments in streamlining some of the work they do. This is done by providing them with detailed, useful reports that they can pull various insights from and drive actionable change. It feels good to know the work I do makes a difference within the organization.
Did you choose CRE or did CRE choose you? What drew you to Berkadia?
Prior to joining Berkadia, which was GMAC Commercial Mortgage at the time, the majority of my working career was in banking. In high school, I started an entry level position for a small savings bank. After working my way up the ladder, I ultimately became the Supervisor of the Loan Support Group.
After 15 years working there, the company was bought out and it was time to look for a new job, ideally in the financial realm. Luckily, GMACCM was looking for people. After couple of interviews, I was hired as a Client Relations Manager for the Life Company Servicing Group. Now, 24 years later, I couldn’t be happier making the transition from banking to the commercial real estate industry. CRE is such a dynamic industry and there is always something new to learn.
Where are you seeing opportunities right now?
Data, data and more data–there is a lot of reliance on data today, especially in CRE. We have to be able to provide detailed and insightful information within a quick turnaround time to the advisors and bankers in our network. The tools to provide this information must also be user friendly and secure. As we have seen with the tools that Berkadia has developed over the last few years, deals can be won by providing timely, accurate data to the mortgage bankers, their clients, and our lending partners.
What advice would you give to a younger version of yourself coming into the CRE industry?
I would tell them to learn as much as you can while still in school. If possible, try and do an internship as this would provide real world, hands-on experience. The CRE industry has countless opportunities and it’s one I wish more people knew about. It is truly a fascinating industry and there are many career opportunities.
When you are not helping Berkadia move the industry forward, how do you spend your time?
I’m married with four children, a dog and two cats—never a dull moment! When I’m not working, I enjoy spending quality time with my family. Recently, I helped my two younger boys (freshman & junior in high school) with building their first computers. It was such a great experience opening their eyes to the world of technology. Now, they are taking classes in computer maintenance, aviation, and graphic design.
-Mark Durovka, AVP – Servicing Portfolio Manager