Franco is an accomplished finance professional with experience and knowledge from different industry aspects. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Northern Illinois University with an emphasis in Operations Management and Information Systems. His career began with the prestigious firm Waddell and Reed, Inc. as a licensed Financial Advisor. During his employment, Franco heightened his ex
pertise by successfully completing his NASD Series 7, 63, and 65 licensing examinations. He enjoyed helping his clients understand and implement strategies such as retirement planning, tax-deferred education savings, and wealth accumulation to achieve their long-term goals. After spending time in the financial planning arena and working with various other professionals such as CPA’s, bankers, brokers, and attorneys, Franco discovered his true calling was in mortgage banking. He felt that by helping others realize the American dream, every single client of his was in a better position to work towards becoming financially independent. Joining Chicago Bancorp in 2006, Franco brought with him years of lending experience, a track record of industry leading service (LendingTree.com’s 2005 Gold Leaf Award), knowledge of a wide array of loan programs, and expertise in providing clients with financial solutions that compliment their lifestyle. His previous success led to a promotion at his former bank’s newly created LendingTree.com division where he led his division in new loan originations and won Banker of the Month honors several times. Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood is where Franco resides today. When he is not working, he enjoys everything Chicago has to offer from the sporting events to the cultural festivals to the countless museums and landmarks.