Meet Jaki
About
My name is Ruth Lee, CMB
Ruth Lee is a seasoned mortgage industry leader with over 30 years of experience driving innovation, operational excellence, and executive strategy. As the Founder and CEO of Big Think, Ruth partners with mortgage lenders and fintech firms to deliver transformative solutions in automation, AI readiness, and operational optimization.
A Certified Mortgage Banker and recognized thought leader, Ruth is known for guiding organizations through complex challenges. Her accolades include “Most Powerful Women in FinTech” and “Women with Vision” awards, reflecting her influence as a forward-thinking industry innovator.
In addition to her professional achievements, Ruth is a sought-after speaker, published author, and lifelong advocate for leveraging technology to shape the future of mortgage banking.
Jaki Fanelli, Automation Architect
A winner of the prestigious Ellie Mae Hall of Fame Award (now the ICE Innovation Award), Jaki Fanelli is a skilled automation architect with extensive expertise in Encompass technology and process optimization. At Big Think, she designs and implements innovative automation strategies, empowering mortgage lenders to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline operations.
Jaki specializes in Encompass SDK transitions, Automated Service Ordering (ASO) optimization, and workflow automation. With a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of system capabilities, she customizes solutions to meet each client’s unique needs, driving measurable improvements in performance and scalability.
Her collaborative approach, technical proficiency, and dedication to client success make Jaki an invaluable partner for organizations seeking to modernize their operations through automation and technology-driven transformation.
Michael Hammond JD, CMT
Jaki Fanelli is an
automation guru. 🔥
Logan Judah, LO
"Jaki Fanelli is a rockstar and an amazing person!
Her focus on surgical precision and asking the right questions to uncover bottlenecks can indeed lead to signifigant productivity gains and ROI improvements. This approach not only steamlines operations but also enhances the satisfaction and productivitvy of teams by reducing redunfancy and error. It's a reminder that in automation, as in surgery, the correct initial diagnosis and targeted intervention are keys to success."
Joanne Davis Morgan, VP of Operations
"Jaki Fanelli is the bomb on automation!"
Jaki's Approach
TIME IS OUR MOST PRECIOUS COMMODITY.
MY SUPERPOWER IS RECLAIMING YOURS.
Automation has never been a buzzword for me; it's been the clear path forward.
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I found my calling when I fell in love with administering the technology we use in the field. An accomplished automation architect with a background in mortgage sales, operations, technology, and executive leadership my approach is pragmatic yet forward thinking.
While I specialize in the Encompass Mortgage Technology Platform by ICE, I have spent over two decades leveraging automation and designing efficient eco-systems to streamline manufacturing efforts.
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I believe that simplicity is key and emphasize the importance of asking the right questions. I have developed an eye for identifying inefficiencies and implementing targeted solutions with precision.
I understand the power of automation in minimizing manual errors, reducing redundant tasks, decreasing turn times, and ultimately tangible ROI. I advocate for strategic architecture, design, and data analytics to drive decision making. I recommend tools and platform improvements that not only meet current business needs but also have the flexibility to adapt and grow with evolving business models. I only build to scale.
I value the collaboration between humans and technology. When both work together seamlessly businesses can truly dominate. As a thought leader in mortgage technology and operations I am dedicated to empowering others to embrace automation and efficient design to unlock the full potential of their operations.
When I am not creating time in the mortgage process, I am self-publishing a book created to support the spouses of Veterans with PTSD. I genuinely believe every day is an adventure and adore being in the woods. An avid gardener as well as an aquarium enthusiast surrounding myself with nature is vital, even indoors. I also enjoy giving my time as a volunteer; I serve on the Administrative Board for 2 of the 4 non-profits I work with as Treasurer.